Over 500 sit entrance exam for Delta technical colleges
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Over 500 prospective students took an entrance exam for technical colleges across Delta State, Nigeria.
- Education officials and parents are calling for increased investment in technical and vocational education.
- The exam aims to assess aptitude and interest, reflecting a growing parental focus on practical skills for students.
More than 500 aspiring students participated in an entrance examination for technical colleges throughout Delta State, Nigeria, on Saturday. The exercise, held at the Model Technical College in Asaba and other technical institutions across the state, is part of the admission process for students seeking to enroll in technical education programs.
I met a woman who came all the way from Warri simply because she wanted her child to acquire practical skills. This is very encouraging because we are now focusing more on practical education.
Education officials and parents alike are advocating for sustained investment in technical and vocational education. Dr. Anthony Okwunze, Permanent Secretary of the Delta State Ministry of Technical Education, monitored the examination in Asaba. He explained that the exam assesses candidates' aptitude and interest before admission, noting the strong turnout indicates a rising interest among parents in practical education.
"I met a woman who came all the way from Warri simply because she wanted her child to acquire practical skills. This is very encouraging because we are now focusing more on practical education," Okwunze stated. He emphasized the ministry's goal to equip students with practical skills before they complete secondary education, enabling them to become economically productive while pursuing further studies or employment.
When these children complete their education up to Senior Secondary School Three, they should leave with a particular skill that they can use to become productive. While waiting for admission into higher institutions, they can use the skills they have acquired to support themselves and, by extension, their families.
Okwunze commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his support of technical education and skills acquisition, recognizing its importance in preparing young people for a technology-driven economy. The ministry may consider a supplementary examination if a significant number of applicants were unable to attend the main exercise. Teachers and candidates reported a calm and organized examination process.
So far, the examination has been very successful. As you can see, the environment is calm and conducive, and the students are doing exactly what they are expected to do.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.