The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with five tertiary institutions to strengthen railway technology and skills capacity in Nigeria.
The MoU, signed in Lagos on Monday, focuses on technology transfer and training, with the aim of enhancing the skill set in railway engineering and management. The institutions involved are Yaba College of Technology, Lagos; Kwara State Polytechnic; Federal Polytechnic, Offa; Kaduna State Polytechnic; and Trinity University, Sabo, Lagos.
Dr Kayode Opeifa, NRC’s Managing Director/CEO, highlighted that the initiative would not only enhance railway technology and skill acquisition but also bridge the gap in staff progression. He noted that the collaboration would allow NRC staff to acquire diplomas and advance beyond their current qualifications, offering opportunities for those with Higher National Diplomas to progress further in rail technology, administration, and management.
“This initiative will allow us to put to maximum use the skill sets available in railway, which is not readily available in many industries,” Opeifa stated, adding that the MoU would create a legacy of skill development.
Opeifa also explained that the partnership would open the door for NRC employees to access further education and training, and even contribute as guest lecturers at the participating polytechnics and universities. The collaboration will also benefit the institutions by giving students access to NRC’s facilities and equipment, leading to practical, hands-on learning.
He further expressed that foreign training would not be significantly impacted by the new local initiative, which aims to provide knowledge within Nigeria’s borders, saving significant resources.
Dr Kadir Oluwatoyin, Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara, described the MoU as a bold step aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasised the benefits of hands-on learning experiences for students, internships, and opportunities for staff to undertake sabbaticals at NRC.
Dr Abdul Mohammed, Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, also praised the MoU for its potential to train the next generation of railway engineers and technicians, create jobs for the unemployed youth, and reduce the reliance on foreign expatriates in the sector.
“It will create job opportunities within the country and provide international prospects for our graduates,” Mohammed added.
(NAN)