The Department of Human Development & Social Affairs, Directorate of Education, Science and Culture held a significant meeting from November 5th to 8th, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria. This gathering brought together stakeholders from member states, leaders from the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI), the Federation of West African Employer’s Organisation (FWAEO), and other TVET partners.
In his opening statement delivered by Acting Director Dr. Roland Kouakou, the Honourable Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs welcomed participants. He emphasized that “the TVET sector is one of the major priorities of the Commission,” highlighting the development of the ECOWAS TVET Strategy for Skills Improvement and Employability (ETTSIE). This strategy serves as a support document for member states to enhance their TVET sectors while expanding opportunities at various educational levels and strengthening connections between work environments, education, and training systems.
The meeting focused on validating guidelines designed to effectively integrate TVET graduates into industries. The aim was to improve employability and bridge gaps between educational outcomes and workforce needs.
Key sessions featured presentations by expert resource persons on essential topics such as selecting TVET graduates, defining stakeholder roles and responsibilities, and monitoring and evaluating the immersion program. These discussions promoted strategic dialogue to foster collaboration and enhance TVET delivery effectiveness in the region.
ECOWAS reiterated its commitment to integrating TVET graduates into industries and strengthening collaboration with stakeholders in member states. This initiative underscores ECOWAS’s dedication to promoting socio-economic development and regional integration.
