Nigeria has millions of talented young people and a growing need for skilled workers. The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Initiative is one of the most important efforts to bring the two together, and Meristem VEII is proud to drive it.

What the TVET Initiative is

In the words of the official portal, the TVET Initiative is a flagship program of the Federal Ministry of Education designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship. It works through partnerships with certified training centres across the country and offers tuition free training, monthly stipends and start up support for selected trades in high demand sectors.

Its stated aims are to close Nigeria's skills gap, create a pipeline of skilled workers for industries, empower young people for self reliance and promote national development through vocational excellence.

Two ways to train

The portal describes two programme tracks:

  • Short Term Certificate (STC) Programme: a practical track that does not require prior educational qualifications, designed for people who want to learn a skill and enter the workforce quickly.
  • Vocational Education and Innovation (VEI) Programme: suited to people with some education or informal training who want to deepen and formalise their skills.

Recognition of prior learning is part of the process, so skills picked up through apprenticeship or informal work can count.

What trainees receive

According to the portal, trainees benefit from tuition free training, financial support during training through stipends paid directly by the Federal Government through NELFund, learning from experienced industry professionals, and certification recognised by employers.

What is expected of trainees

TVET is a serious commitment. The programme terms include at least 65% attendance, biometric attendance monitoring, identity verification with NIN and BVN, and standards of conduct and discipline. Trainees must also attend training at their assigned location.

TVET rewards people who show up and put in the work. The skills, and the certificate, last a lifetime.

Where Meristem VEII fits

Meristem VEII drives the TVET Initiative by delivering hands on training in practical, in demand skills, including Social Media Communications. Our approach is learning by doing, supported by mentors and enterprise skills, which you can read about in how hands on training is closing Nigeria's skills gap.

How to apply

Applications are made through the official TVET portal at tvet.education.gov.ng. There you register, choose your programme track, trade and training centre, and upload your documents. Always use the official portal, and be wary of anyone asking for money to secure a place.

If you have questions about training with Meristem VEII, contact our team or visit our campus in Abuja.