The Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) and the Skills Development for Youth Employment Programme (SKYE) of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, implementing on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, with co-funding from the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation, have emphasized the need for gender-inclusive technical and vocational education for industry-responsive solutions.

This was discussed at the World Teachers’ Day celebration organized by LASTVEB in partnership with GIZ, themed *Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education (Recognition of the Significant Contributions of Female Teachers in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET))* in Lagos.

Programme Component Manager for TVET, GIZ SKYE, Christian Stehling, emphasized the urgent need for inclusive and equitable educational practices to prepare the nation for the challenges ahead.

Stressing the need for inclusion, he said that teachers stand at the forefront of enriching educational systems, especially in TVET, promoting quality education, driving increased participation of women and girls, and developing innovative solutions.

He applauded female TVET teachers excelling in male-dominated trades across different TVET colleges in various states, saying that they are more than educators, but pioneers and role models, shattering stereotypes and leading the way towards a more inclusive workforce.

“Their work is a powerful realization of Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5, and 8: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education, promoting lifelong learning opportunities, and contributing directly to promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. By taking up roles in male-dominated fields, these female teachers inspire not only their students but society.

“They demonstrate that educational spaces, particularly in technical and vocational sectors, can and should reflect the diversity of the world we live in. Through their leadership, they are expanding access to quality education and encouraging more women and girls to pursue non-traditional career paths, thus advancing gender parity in education,” Stehling said.

Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, Mrs. Moronke Azeez, said this year’s theme provides the opportunity to listen to and integrate teachers’ perspectives into educational policies and foster a supportive environment for their professional development.

She said that LASTVEB recognizes the significant role of female teachers in male-dominated occupational skills training in technical and vocational education, as well as the need to raise awareness about female issues and expand opportunities for girls in skills training by encouraging them to pursue training in non-traditional areas.

“LASTVEB seeks to increase the number of young women participating in technical education and support the rise of female instructors as role models for a sustainable future,” she said.

According to her, in Nigeria and worldwide, teachers encounter challenges such as limited resources, lack of professional development, teacher shortages, heavy workloads, and stress.

Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reiterated that World Teachers’ Day is a testament to the tireless efforts, unwavering dedication, and selfless commitment of educators worldwide.

He said that female instructors embody the best of education, particularly in pushing boundaries and exploring new methods and challenges.

He added that they are rare change agents, fostering inclusivity, equity, and social justice. Their voices matter, their perspectives help shape the understanding of the world, and their expertise informs the human response to the complexities of our time.

He said, “Today, we honor the transformative power of all Female Instructors. We recognize your unique experiences, viewpoints, and teaching styles, enriching the learning environment. We recognise your stance in challenging traditional gender roles, demonstrating women’s capabilities in leadership and expertise. We acknowledge your contributions to the diverse workforce, driving innovation and economic growth. We celebrate technical education instructors, raise awareness about technical education, and highlight Female Instructors in non-traditional occupational skills.”