Nigerian Youths Can Thrive in the Construction Sector with Required Changes

News Summary

A UK-based Quantity Surveyor highlights that Nigerian youths can excel in the construction industry with necessary reforms in the education system. The call stresses the need for curriculum updates and better training methods to equip students with essential skills. Enhanced access to practical training and gender diversity initiatives are vital for fostering a skilled workforce capable of addressing the infrastructure challenges in Nigeria. Youth-led startups are emerging as key players in providing solutions for housing and urban development, reinforcing the importance of empowering the youth.

Nigerian Youths Can Thrive in the Construction Sector with Required Changes

A UK-based Quantity Surveyor has emphasized the potential for Nigerian youths to actively engage and benefit from opportunities within the construction industry. However, significant reforms in Nigeria’s tertiary education system are vital to align educational outputs with the evolving demands in both the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Urgent Need for Curriculum Reform

The existing curriculum in Nigerian universities is criticized for being outdated, lacking essential components that are crucial for modern construction practices. Among the missing elements are digital construction tools, principles of sustainable design, and global best practices. To address these shortcomings, there is a call for stronger collaboration between universities, professional bodies such as NIQS and COREN, and the construction industry. Such partnerships are expected to help revamp educational programs.

Enhancing Training and Skill Development

To better prepare students for real-world challenges in the industry, training should incorporate modules on important topics like contract administration (including NEC and FIDIC), lifecycle cost analysis, and methods for sourcing sustainable materials. Employers are encouraged to prioritize both technical competence and vital “soft” skills, particularly communication, adaptability, teamwork, and digital fluency when selecting candidates.

Expanding Access to Practical Training

There is a strong advocate for enhancing access to training facilities like the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) Skills Academy, which emphasizes hands-on learning. By equipping students with practical experience and knowledge of certified training methods aligned with international standards from organizations like RICS, CIOB, or CITB, Nigeria could develop skilled professionals ready to tackle pressing challenges in the construction sector.

Sustainability in Urban Planning

Innovative low-cost strategies to promote sustainability in urban development are also needed. This includes leveraging local materials, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, and using solar-powered lighting in building projects. Such initiatives could not only benefit the environment but also deliver cost-effective solutions to urban challenges.

Empowering Women in Construction

Addressing gender diversity in the construction industry is crucial. There is a pressing need for mentorship and role models for women, as cultural stereotypes and a scarcity of visible female professionals hinder progress. Gender-focused programs should be initiated in Nigeria to offer technical exposure and mentorship opportunities for girls.

Policies to Promote Gender Diversity

The Nigerian government is called to implement policies encouraging gender diversity within the construction sector. This could include offering scholarships specifically for women and setting gender quotas in public tenders. By fostering an inclusive environment, Nigeria can empower women to contribute to solving the country’s construction-related challenges.

Youths as Solution Drivers

Nigerian youths represent a considerable opportunity to address nationwide issues such as housing shortages and infrastructural decay. Innovative youth-led startups are already emerging, offering practical solutions such as rent finance options to meet housing needs. The government also aims to train five million youths in market-relevant skills through initiatives such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which highlights the importance of equipping young people with high-demand skills in various sectors, including construction.

Conclusion

For Nigeria to build a robust construction industry capable of addressing its present and future needs, it is crucial to revamp educational structures, promote gender diversity, and empower youths with relevant skills. These initiatives will not only create a skilled workforce but also ensure that Nigerian youths are equipped to be pivotal in the country’s developmental journey.

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Additional Resources

• Nigeria’s Youths Are Today’s Solution Drivers – Tribune Online
• FG To Equip Five Million Youths With ICT, Construction, Agric Skills – Gazette NG
• Firm Trains 100 Nigerian Youths on Vocational Skills Acquisition – This Day Live
• Bonny Youths Shut Down Oil Companies Over Alleged Neglect – Channels TV
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Nigerian youths in construction
• Google Search: Nigerian construction industry