Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Peter Mbah is evolving a paradigm shift in the education sector in Enugu State as he moves it towards vocational and skill-driven learning.
The Governor who was excited over the trend was full of praise for Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was in the state to inaugurate the rebranded Government Technical College, GTC Enugu.
Dr Mbah who took to his X handle, thanked the President’s wife for finding time to inaugurate the project along other projects in the state, re-affirmed his commitment towards vocational education.
He explained that his decision to build technical and vocational schools across the state, was to assist youths in the state to acquire skills for self reliance.
The Governor wrote: “We were honoured to have the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, officially commission our new Technical and Vocational Education and Training College, GTC Enugu, during her two-day working visit to Enugu State.
“This institution is the first of eight technical and vocational colleges we are establishing across the federal constituencies of Enugu State, marking a clear departure from traditional, rote-based education toward experiential, skill-driven learning. This shift is essential for equipping our youth with the practical knowledge and competencies they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.
“We are moving beyond a system that emphasizes memorization to one that values creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on problem-solving, because we believe education must prepare students not just to pass exams, but to succeed in life and contribute meaningfully to society.
“What once stood as a symbol of decay and neglect in our education system has, in less than one year, been transformed into a state-of-the-art hub for skills development, also complemented by two Smart Green Schools within the expansive premises.
“GTC Enugu boasts 24 ultra-modern training centres, including those dedicated to ICT and digital innovation, renewable energy, welding and fabrication, auto-mechatronics, refrigeration and air conditioning, fashion design and garment making, hospitality, and more. The facility also includes two modern hostels capable of housing up to 1,000 resident male and female students.
“We are deeply grateful to the First Lady for her kind words of encouragement and for recognising our commitment to responsible governance and impactful public investment.
“Our focus remains clear. We are investing in human capital because we know no nation can rise above the quality of its people.Tomorrow is here!”
