Dr Tunji Alausa Introduces NESRI to Tackle Out-of-School Children

Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, has launched the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).

This initiative aims to address critical areas such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), STEM fields, and the pressing issue of out-of-school children, marking a crucial milestone in the country’s journey toward equitable, quality education for all.

During a high-level meeting with key stakeholders, Dr. Alausa outlined the country’s vision to transition from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven economy, with a focus on improving learning outcomes and enhancing human capital.

The meeting included representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education (FME), private sector partners, development agencies, commissioners of education, and officials from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).

The NESRI, part of Nigeria’s broader goal to provide “Better Education for All,” emphasizes critical areas such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM), and addressing the issues of Out-of-School Children and Almajiri children.

The initiative aims to create equitable access to quality education, improve learning outcomes, and strengthen education governance, while aligning with the country’s long-term goal of transitioning to a knowledge- and skills-based economy.

In his address, Dr. Alausa highlighted the importance of reducing the number of out-of-school children, tackling learning poverty, and enhancing human capital to better equip the labor market.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Alausa said, “By prioritizing areas such as TVET, STEMM, and addressing out-of-school children, we plan to transition the country from a resource-based economy to a knowledge- and skills-based economy.

“Through NESRI, we will reduce the number of out-of-school children, decrease learning poverty, and enhance skills and human capital for the labor market.”

He expressed his gratitude to the stakeholders involved and emphasized the collaborative efforts needed to finalize the NESRI.

Dr. Alausa also called on all sectors to join in the journey of renewed hope, stating, “The Nigeria we envision is within reach.”

The Ministry of Education has outlined more technical sessions in the coming weeks to continue developing the initiative, underscoring the nation’s commitment to educational reform and growth.