Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Federal Government has overhauled agricultural education in Nigeria, introducing an 80% practical, 20% theory training model to produce industry-ready graduates and boost food security.
Sequel to this, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, unveiled 39 agricultural curricula and 31 National Occupational Standards (NOS) at the UBEC Digital Resource Centre, Abuja.
Alausa said the reform, developed since 2025 by the Ministries of Education, Agriculture & Food Security, and Livestock Development, will bridge the gap between classroom and industry.
The 39 curricula comprise 32 reviewed and 7 newly developed programmes for ND, HND and NCE levels, covering Precision Agriculture, Climate-Smart Agriculture, Artificial Insemination and Agribusiness.
A key feature is hands-on learning in teaching farms, greenhouses, processing facilities and agric-tech hubs.
Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said the reform will help Nigeria tap into the $3.2bn Middle East red meat market, which the country has missed due to lack of practical expertise.
He said functional farms should now determine accreditation of institutions.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, said the reform will reposition TVET and called for industry partnerships for apprenticeships and workplace learning, with inclusion for women and persons with disabilities.
Alausa said success will be judged by graduates’ competence, jobs created and contributions to national food security — in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.