Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding non-formal education, digital skills training, and youth empowerment initiatives as part of efforts to address unemployment and improve access to learning opportunities across the country.
This formed part of discussions at the ongoing World Education Forum 2026 in London, where Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, participated in a high-level session hosted by His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, titled “Empowering Learners Through Non-Formal Education.”
Speaking during the session, the minister highlighted several education and skills development initiatives currently being implemented under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to her, the programmes are designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, improve employability, and provide alternative learning pathways for out-of-school children and vulnerable groups.
She identified some of the initiatives to include the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, the Accelerated Basic Education Programme for out-of-school children, entrepreneurship and innovation training, as well as digital skills development initiatives aimed at preparing young people for the future workforce.
Dr. Ahmad noted that non-formal education remains critical in addressing learning gaps and creating opportunities for millions of young Nigerians who may not fit into the conventional education system.
“The goal remains to ensure that every Nigerian child and youth, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to succeed,” she stated.
The session also featured contributions from other global education leaders including Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, Ontario, Canada; Raquel Teixeira, Secretary of State for Education, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; and Andrea Chakma, International Youth Representative of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Foundation.
The World Education Forum brings together policymakers, education stakeholders, development partners, and global leaders to discuss emerging issues, reforms, and innovations shaping the future of education worldwide.
