The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) recently implemented a training programme for sub-Saharan countries in Lagos on leadership for open and distance learning (ODL) in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) for institutional TVET leaders from Kenya and Nigeria.

The programme attracted 86 participants from 21 TVET-accredited institutions (19 from Nigeria and two from Kenya). It included a wrap-up event attended by officials from the Nigerian National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)  and over 30 TVET leaders from ten institutions. During the workshop, institutional strategies for ODL in TVET were validated to develop action plans for the implementation of the strategies in three phases.

In his opening remarks, delivered by Mr Ayo Aroge, Executive Secretary, NBTE, Professor Idris Bugaje emphasised the crucial role of transformative leadership in shaping education, especially in the implementation of ODL in TVET. He stated that NBTE will continue to partner with COL to train and retrain TVET teachers to enhance the overall quality of TVET.

Dr Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, Rector, Yaba College of Technology in Nigeria emphasised the importance of TVET leaders taking the lead in fostering innovation to ensure flexible delivery of TVET. Mr Jay Juma, a participant from Butere Technical and Vocational College in Kenya, said that the emphasis on action plans underscores a commitment to translating ideas into tangible transformative practices.

Mr Robert Okinda, COL’s Adviser: Skills, explained that COL is currently implementing the programme in select Commonwealth countries with the aim of bringing about transformational change in skills training using ODL approaches and technologies for increased access to quality and standardised TVET for all. He added that the purpose of the programme is to develop strategic and high-level operational capabilities of designated TVET personnel to lead initiatives for the uptake of digital learning and teaching technologies within their institutions.