Twenty-eighth International Conference on Learning

Abstract

Vocational and technical education is any education, training, and learning activity that leads to the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and skills which are relevant for employment or self-reliance. Vocational and technical education being an integral part of national development strategies plays great role on human resource development, productivity, and economic development. It holds the key to national development of most nations. Despite the contribution of vocational and technical education towards economic development, it has not been given the desired attention by the Nigerian government. The consequence of this inattention could affect social and economic development in Nigeria. This paper examines the concept of vocational and technical education, objectives of vocational and technical education, the important role of vocational and technical education in economic development and the challenges of vocational and technical education in Nigeria. Finally, the study recommends that the nation should invest heavily in education with particular attention to vocational and technical education. Made in Nigeria goods by our technicians in technical and vocational centers should be patronized and valued by the Nigerian government at citizens at large.