The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, has identified Technical and Vocational Education as an avenue that can help the country in realising a sustainable economic transformation.

 Prof.  Arigbabu stated this during an induction of new corporate members and public lecture and awards, tagged; "Repositioning of Technical Education for Economic Rejuvenation", organised by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Abeokuta Branch, held at Valley View Auditorium, Government House, Abeokuta.

The education expert who described the event as a veritable platform to sensitise the public about the existence, purpose, prospect and economic advantages embedded in technical and vocational education said the sub-sector is capable of providing skilled manpower needed for the development of the society.

He said technical education prepares people, especially youths to work as a skilled technicians, secure their future and enhance their transition to lifelong opportunities, adding that it also helps in reducing crime rates and social vices among the youths.

"It is a fact that technical and vocational education remains key ingredients for the overall well-being of any nation which must be accorded with critical attention it deserves. It is capable of creating a million jobs that can lead to sustainable economic development in our society", he submitted.

The Commissioner noted that the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration had prioritised the area in its education developmental plans, assuring that the government would not renege on its promise to provide free and qualitative technical education in a more conducive learning atmosphere.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Abeokuta Branch, Engr. Dr. Kolawole Olonade pointed out that technical education is a vital tool in economic revitalisation, promising that the body is ready to partner with the government by coming up with professional advice that could engender successful implementation of its infrastructural agenda.

Speaking on behalf of other inductees, Mr. Adesegun Fatoki opined that for technical education to be properly encouraged, discrimination between the certified Engineers and the artisans should be discouraged, hence the artisans should be recognised and be treated as skillful personnel.

High point of the event was the presentation of a distinguished corporate award to the Commissioner.