In a bold move to redefine the future of higher education in Nigeria, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has unveiled a new vocational training initiative aimed at equipping students with hands-on technical skills in automobile servicing and maintenance.
The programme, titled “Fundamentals of Automobile Service and Periodic Maintenance Training,” is part of the university’s Vocational and Technical Training Programme (VTTP) and reflects the strategic reforms championed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Edoba Omoregie.
Announced on Wednesday in Benin City by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, the initiative is designed to transform UNIBEN into a centre for capacity building and vocational excellence, aligning with one of the pillars of the Vice-Chancellor’s Five-Point Agenda.
“The future of higher education in Nigeria lies in skill integration, where academic learning is complemented by vocational and technical training,” Prof. Omoregie stated. “This initiative is designed to empower students with practical skills, entrepreneurial drive, and the mindset to become job creators rather than job seekers.”
The first phase of the programme targets undergraduate engineering students, who will receive hands-on instruction in automobile diagnostics, servicing, and periodic maintenance. Training will be delivered by industry professionals and technical experts, ensuring that students gain real-world experience alongside their academic studies.
Prof. Omoregie emphasized that the initiative is UNIBEN’s contribution to bridging the gap between theory and practice in engineering education, aligning with global best practices in experiential learning.
Coordinator of the VTTP, Prof. Andrew Amenaghawon, praised the Vice-Chancellor’s visionary leadership and commitment to student development. “This programme is not just about learning how to fix cars,” he said. “It is about empowering students with practical knowledge that adds real value, enhances employability, and fosters self-reliance.”
The launch of this training programme marks a significant step in UNIBEN’s journey to become a national leader in technical and vocational education, offering students a competitive edge in today’s dynamic job market.
