Nigeria Opens Free Technical School for 13-20 Year Olds

Nigeria is giving young people a free path to in-demand careers through fully funded technical colleges that prepare students for today's job market.

Education Minister Tunji Alausa announced that applications open Monday for Federal Technical Colleges across the country. The government will cover all costs for admitted students aged 13 to 20.

"This is part of our commitment to human capital and skills development," Alausa said in a statement. The program aims to equip young Nigerians with practical, employable skills that match what industries actually need.

The application window runs from January 26 through May 24, with entrance exams scheduled for June 6. Students must register through the National Business and Technical Examinations Board portal and will need a valid National Identification Number to complete their application.

The program reflects how technical education is evolving in Nigeria. Last year, the government completely revamped the curriculum to include modern trades like social media content creation, solar panel installation, and digital media production alongside traditional skills like welding, carpentry, and auto mechanics.

Students will take nine or ten subjects total, including one trade course, five or six general subjects like math and English, two or three trade-related subjects, and one elective. Each technical college will offer between six and ten different trade programs.

The trade options span 27 different fields, from beauty therapy and cosmetology to motorcycle repair and fish farming. Other courses include computer hardware repair, refrigeration and air conditioning, fashion design, and even CNG vehicle conversion and maintenance.

The Ripple Effect

This initiative addresses a critical gap in many African economies where young people struggle to find employment despite having academic credentials. By teaching practical skills that match current industry needs, Nigeria is creating a direct pipeline from education to employment.

The modernized curriculum shows the government is paying attention to emerging opportunities. Solar energy, digital media, and social media management represent growing sectors across Africa where skilled workers are in high demand.

Making the program completely free removes the biggest barrier families face when considering technical education. Parents who couldn't afford trade school can now watch their children gain valuable skills without worrying about tuition, fees, or other costs.

Nigeria is betting that investing in its young people's practical skills today will pay dividends for generations to come.