By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The Federal Government has announced the commencement of applications for the second cohort of its Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme aimed at boosting skills acquisition and employment.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in a post on his X handle on Monday, describing the initiative as a key component of the administration’s human capital development drive.
“Today marks the opening of applications for the second cohort of our National TVET Programme, a key step in advancing human capital development,” he said.
He noted that the programme recorded significant interest during its first phase, with over 1.3 million applications received nationwide.
“Last year, over 1.3 million Nigerians applied, a powerful reminder of the growing demand for practical skills and the impact they can have on people’s lives and our economy,” he added.
Alausa said the application portal would open at 4:00pm (WAT), urging Nigerians across age groups to take advantage of the opportunity.
“We are calling on every Nigerian, young or old, who has a dream, a vision for a better life, and a hardworking spirit to sign up. With TVET, you can build your own future,” he said.
According to details on the programme portal, applications reopened on April 13, 2026, offering fully funded training across multiple vocational and technical fields.
The initiative features two training tracks, a six-month Short-Term Certificate programme designed for beginners, and a one-year Vocational Education and Innovation track for individuals with prior learning or informal experience.
Entry requirements include a valid National Identification Number and Bank Verification Number, while the advanced track also accepts proof of prior learning or basic educational certificates.
Participants will receive free tuition funded by the Federal Government, monthly stipends, hands-on training, and nationally recognised certification upon completion.
The programme also offers start-up support and access to business loans to enable graduates to establish enterprises in their chosen fields.
Training areas include electrical installation, welding and fabrication, digital media, automobile repairs, fashion design, agriculture, and renewable energy, among others.
Training centres are located across the six geopolitical zones, including federal and state technical colleges, as well as accredited private institutions.
The TVET programme forms part of broader efforts by the administration of Bola Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s skills development ecosystem and reduce unemployment.
Punch Online had earlier reported that the minister recently engaged international partners in the United Kingdom to advance the next phase of Nigeria’s TVET reforms and expand global collaboration in vocational training.
The Punch