By Blessing Bature
The Republic of Korea, through its grant aid and technical cooperation agency KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency), established a state-of-the-art Technical Vocational Education (TVET) institute in Lokoja, Kogi State.
Speaking during an interview session, an alumnus of the NKFI, Mr. Ajiboye Damilola shared that the Institute provided him with the much-needed skills and knowledge to be gainfully employed which has improved his livelihood.
“I was sought after at the Grand Cereal Limited as an automation engineer as a result of the hands-on skills obtained while schooling at the NKFI. The NKFI increased my chances of employment at my current workplace and I am confident in the delivery of my tasks, he said”.
A statement from the Korea office states that, In 2011, KOICA commenced the implementation of its TVET intervention in Nigeria with a budget of USD 4.22 M, the project established the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute of Vocational and Advanced Technology (also known as NKFI).
According to the statement, the Modern high-tech equipment was provided, instructors were trained in Korea, and Korean experts were dispatched for the project implementation. The NKFI kicked off its operations in 2015.
“The accredited institute offers technical skills in four core specialized areas namely; welding and fabrication, automobile engineering, electrical engineering, and information technology (networking and software). These courses are designed to ensure that students gain fundamental knowledge, hands-on skills, and competence in the core areas.
“The institute has fully fledged into a renowned technical skill center with national and global recognition. Graduates of the institute are well sought after and are doing exceptionally well in various companies and organizations including UAC Nigeria, and Dangote Industries Limited, as well as global jobs in Glasgow, Scotland, Alberta, and Canada.
The statement reads: NKFI’s curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The Institute emphasizes hands-on training, internships, and industry placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience and develop a strong understanding of their chosen fields. This approach equips graduates with the confidence and competence needed to achieve professional excellence.
KOICA’s TVET project is aligned to the national development agenda as well as SDG 4 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
