Introduction

The Skill “G” Add-Ons (SKAD) initiative continues to make remarkable strides in the development of the technical proficiencies of lecturers and academics from tertiary institutions in Nigeria. It is against this backdrop that Chinese-based company, Shenzhen Fcar Technology Company Limited, recognized Skill “G” and the role the organization plays in the success of educational training in S.E.T and TVET.  

SKAD 11: A Convergence of Academic Minds

SKAD 11 featured participants predominantly from Universities in the North-East region of Nigeria. These participants went through Autotronics, Electronics, Mechatronics, and RAC classes in order to be trained on the use and maintenance of enhanced equipment sent to their institutions by TETFund. 

SKAD 1l: Closing Event

The closing event was moderated by Skill “G’’ Project Manager, Engr. Chijioke Okolie Sampson. In his remark, he admonished the participants to create a chain of knowledge transfer by conducting a train-the-trainer initiative in order to replicate the immense benefits of SKAD. He also reiterated the need not to hoard knowledge gained through this initiative.

SKAD 11: The Testimonies

Representatives of each class at SKAD were called upon to give testimonies of their experiences. 

Speaking on behalf of Autotronics was Prof. Razaq Bello from Gombe State University. He thanked TETFund and Skill “G” for the initiative. He also assured on behalf of other participants in Autotronics, that the efforts of the initiators and facilitators will not be in vain. 

The representative of the Mechatronics class, Prof. Zara Peter from Federal University Kashere, Gombe State, came up next. He thanked TETFund and Skill “G” and according to him, “words are not enough to express our profound gratitude. If we say we have not benefited from SKAD, posterity will never forget us.”

The spokesperson for RAC was Mr. Godwin Dena Erastus, also from Federal University Kashere, Gombe State. In his words, he was “personally overwhelmed”. He acknowledged the Project Manager and referred to SKAD as more than just an add-on, but a “full option”. He also claimed the training was beyond technical, as he learnt about the business side of things. 

Hassan Abdulsalam from Yobe State University spoke on behalf of the electronics track. In brief but concise words, he thanked TETFund and Skill “G” for their impact and claimed that training such as this is done abroad with little impact compared to SKAD. 

SKAD 11: Curtain Fall

After a presentation of gifts for the various Vice Chancellors of universities involved in this cohort, participants were awarded certificates signed by the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono, signaling the end of the event.