Speaker
Description
Tabat, J. G.
Kaduna State College of Education (KSCOE), Gidan Waya
tabatgrace82@gmail.com
Track: Research, Innovation and Knowledge Ecosystems
The need to move beyond traditional rote learning to create localized, interconnected networks where working, living, and learning directly intersect is imperative for a better Africa. This paper proposes general adoption of skills-driven education as a roadmap to developing a competent and technologically equipped future for African youths. Important areas considered includes: curriculum redesign with industry input, assessment reform using portfolios and performance tasks, and governance models that link tertiary institutions, employers, and regulators around shared skill frameworks. It is worthy of noting that most developed nations of the world are where they are today because they have moved beyond credentialing to prioritize competencies, work-integrated learning, and modular credentials. It is not exaggeration therefore to posit that a paradigm shift to entrepreneurial or skill-focused curriculum will bridge the gap between the classroom and workplace. Unarguably, this will go a long way at effectively converting the youth demographic dividend into an engine for sustainable global leadership and accelerate economic development. The paper concludes that transforming the continent’s rapidly growing youth population into a highly adaptable workforce will go a long way at building future-ready ecosystems. Suggestions for policymakers and institutions to align funding, quality assurance, and teaching practice toward skills, while safeguarding equity and access were given.
Key words: Skills; Ecosystems; Curriculum; Youth