FG LAUNCHES FREE TECHNICAL EDUCATION ACROSS NIGERIA’S FEDERAL COLLEGES

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared technical education completely free in all Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs) nationwide, covering a wide range of costs beyond tuition. Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, announced this landmark policy in Abuja, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The government bears the full cost of tuition to guarantee equal access,” Alausa stated, emphasizing the move aims to remove financial barriers for Nigerian students. The free package encompasses boarding, uniforms, textbooks, exercise books, prospectus, ID cards, stationery, medical services, vocational charges, utilities, security, digital learning tools, extra lessons, and insurance.

Alausa stressed that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is a priority for human capital development. “By equipping youth with employable skills, the government seeks to strengthen national progress and competitiveness. No Nigerian child should be denied access to technical education because of illegal charges. By investing in education today, we are building a stronger, self-reliant Nigeria,” he affirmed.

While core expenses are covered, boarding students are expected to provide personal items like toiletries, beddings and clothing. The Ministry has put monitoring mechanisms in place and warned principals against demanding unauthorized payments. Parents can report infractions via hotlines 0803 657 6733 and 0803 637 3796, or email tse@education.gov.ng.