Introduction

SKAD 5: The Skill G Add-ons (SKAD) capacity-building initiative is back with its 5th batch of training, and it’s bigger and better than ever before. In this post, we’ll take you through the exciting details of this initiative, designed to enhance the technical knowledge and proficiency of lecturers and technologists in Nigeria. SKAD’s primary focus is on equipping these professionals with the expertise needed to effectively utilize and maintain equipment provided to their institutions by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

SKAD 5: A Glimpse into the Future

This time around, SKAD 5 is set to empower 32 participants from government-owned polytechnics across Nigeria. The emphasis of this cohort is on institutions in the South-West and South-South geopolitical zones of the country. The participating institutions include:

• Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
• Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara
• Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro
• Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, Warri
• Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State
• Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, Rivers State
• Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti
• Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State

SKAD 5 Opening Event: A Grand Commencement

The launch of the 5th cohort of SKAD was marked by an opening event. The program commenced with the singing of the national anthem and the recital of the national pledge, setting a patriotic tone for the proceedings. Engr. Okolie Chijioke Sampson, the project manager of SKILL ‘G’ Nigeria Limited, took the stage as the moderator, extending a warm welcome to all participants.

During his opening remarks, Engr. Sampson emphasized the pivotal role played by TETFund and its Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, in advancing technical education in Nigeria. He also provided a concise overview of the SKAD initiative, giving participants a sneak peek into what they could expect during their training.

The Facilitators: Masters of Their Craft

One of the highlights of the opening event was the introduction of the facilitators, each representing a specific class under the SKAD training program. These experts are dedicated to imparting their knowledge and experience to the participants, helping them build a strong foundation for their technical education journey. Here are the facilitators and their respective classes:

• Engr. Osmond Ugwuanyi: Mechatronics
• Engr. Essien Godwin: Electronics
• Engr. Emmanuel Nene: Refrigeration & Air Conditioning (RAC)
• Engr. Kalu Olua: Autotronics

These facilitators not only introduced themselves but also provided insights into the exciting add-ons that would form the core of the SKAD training experience.

A Call to Action

As the opening event reached its climax, Engr. Sampson introduced Mr. Ayo Bada, the Project Coordinator of SKILL ‘G’ Nigeria Limited. Mr. Bada encouraged all participants to fully immerse themselves in the training and emphasized the importance of punctual attendance at every class.

With SKAD 5 now in full swing, the future looks promising for Nigeria’s technical education sector. Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the journey of these academics on their path to excellence.