Rector of the International Vocational, Technical and Entrepreneurship College (IVTEC), Ajase-Ipo, in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Dr.Yaru Salihu has reaffirmed that the College is committed to producing graduates who are not only employable but also capable of making significant impacts across the world.
Dr. Salihu made this disclosure during an exclusive interview with journalists in his office, where he highlighted the strategic role of vocational and technical education in driving sustainable development, wealth creation, and economic growth.
According to him, IVTEC was established as a practical response to the challenges of youth unemployment and poverty, providing young people with hands-on skills and entrepreneurial training that align with current labour market demands.
According to him, IVTEC represents a clear demonstration of the administration’s resolve to empower our youths with relevant and market-driven skills that will make them self-reliant and economically productive.
He noted that with the continuous support of the Kwara State Government, many graduates and beneficiaries of the institution’s various skill centres have successfully established small and medium-scale enterprises, while others are actively contributing to the workforce within Kwara State and beyond.
Dr. Salihu explained that the skills imparted at IVTEC are designed to meet the realities of today’s economy while also preparing students for emerging opportunities in the future.
The Rector further disclosed that the institution is working in partnership with the Kwara State Government, the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS), and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to strengthen vocational education and provide adequate training opportunities for youths across the state.
He observed that technical and vocational education has played a vital role in boosting the economies of developed nations such as the United Kingdom, China, and the United States of America, adding that Nigeria must prioritize skills development to achieve sustainable economic progress.
Despite the progress recorded, Yaru expressed concern over the low level of applications to the institution, even with the interventions and support provided by the Kwara State Government and other partners.
He emphasized that the Kwara State Government has implemented numerous youth empowerment programmes across the 16 local government areas of the state, including vocational training initiatives at IVTEC as the positive impact of these programmes is gradually becoming evident among young people.
The Rector clarified that beyond government-sponsored beneficiaries, IVTEC remains open to individuals who are willing to acquire practical skills and professional training.
To encourage wider participation, he revealed that the institution has significantly reduced its school fees to make enrolment more accessible.
He added that IVTEC has qualified instructors and lecturers with practical industry experience, capable of delivering quality training and mentoring students to become competent professionals.
Dr. Salihu also disclosed plans by the management to introduce additional departments and programmes aimed at attracting more applicants and expanding the institution’s academic and vocational offerings.
While acknowledging the achievements recorded so far, the Rector stated that the institution still requires additional infrastructure, student hostels, and funding to expand its operations and meet growing demands.
He therefore appealed to the Kwara State Government, corporate organisations, and well-meaning Nigerians to support IVTEC in its drive to strengthen skills development and youth empowerment.
The Rector commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support and commitment to the growth and development of the institution, describing the governor’s intervention as instrumental to IVTEC’s success.
He also expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler of Ajase-Ipo and the host community for their continued cooperation, support, and peaceful coexistence with the institution.
