TVET And National Security: Exploring the Nexus Between Skills Development in Metalwork Technology and Conflict Prevention

Abstract

Metalwork technology as part of Technical and Vocational Education and Training for the promotion of National security & stability in Nigeria was studied. It thus asserts that skilling youth with metalwork technology can lead to preventing conflicts by providing skills that have employability, combating poverty and fostering social cohesion. The study adopts a qualitative research method, using interview data from metalwork technology tutors and students across three TVET institutions in Lagos State, Nigeria as the case study but finds that importance of TVET programs on the metalwork technology workplace can help both direct conflict prevention action and impact the overall concept of national security. The challenges facing TVET programs in Nigeria are mentioned in the study, such as insufficient funding, poor infrastructure and absence of industry-academia cooperation. It is concluded from this study that TVET in the field of metalwork technology can be a preventive measure against conflict through providing employable skills to young population, reducing poverty and promoting social cohesion. The study also suggests that there should be more focus on investment, partnership between industries and academia, academic support from policymakers towards the curriculum and the capacity building of trainers in order to achieve successful integration of national security through TVET programs. In order to address the issues of unemployment, poverty, and conflicts in Nigeria, policymakers, educators, and development practitioners and industry should give priority to the development of TVET programs, especially in metalwork technology, as the study concludes that this program have the potential to significantly contribute to national security and stability.

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