Introduction

SKAD 13: The Skill ‘G’ Add-Ons (SKAD) is leading technical proficiency in academia with its capacity-building training. SKAD, an initiative of TETFund in collaboration with Skill ‘G’ over the past 13 cohorts has trained 416 lecturers and technologists from polytechnics and universities in Nigeria on the use and maintenance of TETFund-sponsored equipment to their respective institutions. These trainings involve TVET for participants from polytechnics and SET for participants from universities.

SKAD 13: A Convergence of SET Afficionados

The 13th Cohort of SKAD was cut from a fabric of lecturers and technologists from universities across the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones in Nigeria. These institutions include:

• Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufo Alike, Ebonyi
• Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
• University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
• University of Petroleum, Effurum, Delta State
• Delta State University, Abraka
• Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State
• Akwa Ibom State University, Akpadenin
• Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State

During their SKAD training, the participants enrolled in various expertise tracks, such as Autotronics, Mechatronics, Electronics, and Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning (RAC).

SKAD 13: Closing Event

The closing event for SKAD 13 was moderated by Skill “G” Project Manager, Engr. Okolie Chijioke Sampson. He gave a detailed recap of the training, commending TETFund, under the leadership of Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, for its effort in initiating SKAD. He also emphasized on a train-the -trainer initiative to guarantee the sustainability of the training.

Representatives from each SKAD track (Autotronics, Mechatronics, Electronics and RAC) gave testimonies of the training. Each spokesperson confirmed the efficacy and remarkable benefits of this initiative. They also thanked the initiators (TETFund and Skill “G”) for their contributions towards building the technical proficiencies of academics.

Each participant received certificates, and team leads were given gifts for their respective Vice Chancellors, marking the conclusion of the closing event.

SKAD 13: Positively Affecting the Academia

SKAD 13 is positively affecting the academia in Nigeria. Through SET education, this initiative promises to generate a ripple effect that guarantees pragmatic approaches in science engineering technology. With this initiative, the immense benefits can trickle from the lecturers down to the students. This ensures the sustainability of the technical education eco system in Nigeria.