Ogun boosts tech education, launches AI innovation drive, free vocational training scheme

By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to skills development, digital innovation, and youth empowerment with the launch of new initiatives aimed at strengthening technical education and reducing unemployment across the state.

The government also commended Babcock University for establishing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Venture designed to enhance students’ competence, promote research capacity, and nurture innovative ideas.

Speaking at the 2026 Artificial Intelligence and Babcock Innovation Venture (BIV) Summit held at the university’s campus in Iperu, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, described the initiative as timely and forward-looking.

He said the state’s ongoing reforms in educational technology had repositioned the sector and made Ogun a model for other states in Nigeria.

“It is not a bad thing to use technology, including Artificial Intelligence, but it must be applied with caution to get the best results,” Arigbabu said.

The Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, said the institution was shifting towards an education model that goes beyond knowledge transfer to unlocking students’ innate abilities and creative potential.

One of the resource persons at the summit, Nicky Verd, also advised that Artificial Intelligence should be used as a support tool rather than a replacement for human thinking, warning that the future belongs to individuals who can use AI to sharpen critical reasoning.

In a related development, the Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board (OGSTVEB), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced the commencement of a free six-month technical and vocational training programme aimed at equipping youths with industry-relevant skills.

According to the Acting Executive Secretary of OGSTVEB, Mojisola Adenowo, the programme is designed to promote self-reliance and improve employability through hands-on training in construction-related trades, mechanical works, and other technical fields.

She explained that the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to repositioning vocational education as a key driver of economic growth and youth empowerment.

“The training will run for six months and cover various vocational areas at no cost. Participants will receive intensive hands-on instruction using modern training methods,” she said.

Adenowo added that registration is ongoing and will be conducted online without the need for document submission, making it easily accessible to interested applicants across the state.

She further disclosed that participants will undergo assessments at the end of the programme, with only those who maintain full attendance qualifying for certification.

Successful trainees will be awarded the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Certificate under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), a nationally recognised credential that validates vocational competence and enhances employability.

She urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that it aligns with ongoing reforms in technical education aimed at addressing unemployment and boosting productivity.

Members of the public seeking further information and registration details have been advised to contact the designated helplines provided by the board.

The twin initiatives highlight Ogun State’s growing focus on innovation, digital literacy, and skills acquisition as key pillars of its development strategy.