Nigerian youths collaborating on construction, ready to tackle industry challenges.
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 are poised to leverage vast opportunities in the built environment, according to a UK-based Quantity Surveyor. There is a pressing need for educational reforms in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to better align training with the current demands of the construction and infrastructure sectors. Many universities in Nigeria adopt outdated curricula that do not integrate essential modern elements.
The curriculum in Nigerian universities lacks essential components like digital construction tools, sustainable design principles, and adherence to global best practices. A notable gap exists in exposure to live projects and industry placements, which are critical in equipping students with necessary skills that align with modern industry needs. Developing expertise in tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) is vital for graduates entering a competitive market.
To optimize educational programs, a robust partnership between universities, professional bodies such as NIQS and COREN, and the construction industry is crucial. There is an urgent need to incorporate modules on contract administration, including NEC and FIDIC, alongside lifecycle cost analysis and sustainable materials sourcing into the existing curriculum. Employers should prioritize both technical and soft skills when hiring, reinforcing the need for accredited training.
Advocacy for expanding access to hands-on training centers like the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) Skills Academy can further enhance practical learning. Certifications aligned with global standards from organizations such as RICS, CIOB, or CITB will help in raising the industry standard while preparing youths for international engagement.
Key soft skills such as communication, adaptability, teamwork, and digital fluency are increasingly important in the construction landscape. Besides, low-cost strategies promoting sustainability in urban planning—like utilizing local materials and implementing rainwater harvesting or solar-powered lighting—can enhance project outcomes while being economically viable.
The need for mentorship and role models for women in the construction sector is pressing. Barriers such as cultural stereotypes need to be addressed urgently, alongside the creation of gender-focused programs providing technical exposure and mentorship for girls. Policies aimed at promoting gender diversity in the construction industry, including governmental scholarships and gender quotas in public tenders, can greatly enhance women’s participation.
Nigerian youths are viewed as potential solution drivers for pressing challenges, including housing deficits and deteriorating infrastructure. Innovative youth-led startups like YALO, which provides rent finance solutions, exemplify the impact of young professionals striving to make a difference in the sector.
Promoting engagement with STEM education in Nigeria is essential, drawing inspiration from successful models in the UK, to attract young talents into technical fields. Establishing community hubs and innovation spaces will empower youths in under-resourced areas, fostering creativity and collaboration. Structured mentorship networks can play a crucial role in the professional growth of Nigerian youths, connecting them with experienced mentors from the construction industry.
The Nigerian federal government aims to train five million youths in essential entrepreneurial and market-relevant skills through initiatives like Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). These programs will target high-demand skills across sectors, including construction, providing opportunities for free training to interested youths. Furthermore, government-backed initiatives are set to reinforce commitments towards gender diversity and inclusion within the construction sector. A skilled workforce will significantly contribute to addressing contemporary challenges while shaping Nigeria’s future.
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