Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ASABA, Delta State — More than 500 candidates have taken the entrance examination into technical colleges across Delta State, signalling growing interest in skills-based education among parents and young people.
The candidates sat for the examination on Saturday at the Model Technical College, Asaba, and other technical colleges across the state as part of the admission process.
The exercise tested candidates’ aptitude and interest in technical education, which combines classroom instruction with practical skills that can prepare students for employment, entrepreneurship and further education.
Monitoring the examination in Asaba, the Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Technical Education, Dr Anthony Okwunze, said the ministry was focused on ensuring that students graduate with practical skills they could use to become productive.
“I met a woman who came all the way from Warri simply because she wanted her child to acquire practical skills. This is very encouraging because we are now focusing more on practical education,” Okwunze said.
“When these children complete their education up to Senior Secondary School Three, they should leave with a particular skill that they can use to become productive. While waiting for admission into higher institutions, they can use the skills they have acquired to support themselves and, by extension, their families,” he said.
Okwunze also said the state government was supporting technical education as part of efforts to prepare young people for an economy increasingly driven by technology and specialised skills.
“So far, the examination has been very successful. As you can see, the environment is calm and conducive, and the students are doing exactly what they are expected to do,” Mele said.
Tony Okwechime said he chose the Model Technical College for his son because of the boy’s interest in technical activities and positive feedback about the institution.
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Oluwafunbi Bello 
Abah Felicity 