The Skill ‘G’ Add-Ons (SKAD) program has successfully completed its fifth edition, marking another significant milestone in the collaboration between Skill ‘G’ and TETFund. SKAD, tailored for educators and technologists from public tertiary institutions in Nigeria, continues to play a pivotal role in the advancement of technical education and training across the nation.

SKAD 5 focused its efforts on lecturers and technologists primarily from polytechnics in Nigeria. This edition saw 32 participants undergo specialized training in the operation and maintenance of TETFund-sponsored equipment, with a specific focus on: Autotronics, Electronics, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC), and Mechatronics.

Closing Event: Celebrating Accomplishments and Recognizing Leadership

The culmination of SKAD 5 was a momentous occasion, hosted by Engr. Okolie Chijioke Sampson, the Project Manager of the SKILL ‘G’ Group. He began by expressing gratitude to TETFund, with a special mention of the pivotal role played by Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, in the inception and remarkable success of the SKAD initiative. He then underlined the importance of participants sharing the knowledge they gained during the training with their students. This would ensure the continued growth and success of SKAD.

SKAD 5: Voices of Experience

Representatives from each of the four SKAD tracks had the opportunity to articulate their experiences and insights:

• Engr. Damilare Folowo, representing the Electronics class commended the instructors and facilitators, whom he revered as “gurus” for exceeding expectations. He extended his gratitude to the project manager and fellow participants for their camaraderie. He also suggested the replication of such initiatives within institutions.
• Muele Toesae Sunday, speaking on behalf of the RAC class at Ken Saro Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, Rivers State, expressed gratitude for the valuable learning experiences gained during the training, which gave him a competitive edge among colleagues. He also conveyed appreciation to both TETFund and Skill ‘G’ Group for initiating SKAD.
• Engr. Omoakhalen Abdulrrahman, the spokesperson for the Autotronics class at Auchi Polytechnic, highlighted how SKAD had exposed him to a wealth of knowledge. He proposed the extension of this training to other engineering spheres, recognizing its immense value.
• Aliyu Mohammed, representing the Mechatronics class at the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, Warri, expressed appreciation to TETFund, Skill ‘G,’ the project manager, and fellow colleagues for their contributions to SKAD’s success.

SKAD 5: A Fulfilling Conclusion

The closing event reached its zenith with the presentation of special packages to team leads, intended for their respective rectors at their polytechnics. Following this, certificates were bestowed upon all 32 participants, marking the end of a rewarding and enlightening SKAD 5 edition.