Operators in the construction industry have pushed for the revival of technical colleges and trade schools in the nation in an effort to close the skilled labour shortage in the sector and stop the constant building collapse.
The 7th International Construction Building Materials and Technologies Exhibition/Ceramics, Bathroom, and Kitchen Wares Expo, with the theme “The Role of Professionals, artisans, and Government Institutions in Creating a smart, resilient, Mega-city,” will be focused on this area to address this challenge in cooperation with other built environment agencies.
Akintayo Akintola, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Ikeja Branch, asserted that Nigeria was lacking in the appropriate skill, and technical colleges and craft schools were at the forefront of training for skilled workers in the country.
He said: “I am not certain as regards if these schools are in any way functional. We need to teach more on the practical aspects to adequately ensure people are experienced to construct in the real world, hence, reducing these collapses being experienced. Most of these bricklayers, and tilers, among others, come to the site and waste so much, because they were trained without the knowledge of the conservation of materials. This also leads to spending so much on building projects.
“Our technical colleges and craft schools need to be enhanced, rather than setting up universities and polytechnics teaching only the theoretical aspect.”
In the same vein, the Chief Executive Officer of ELAN Expo Nigeria, Jude Chime, said the skilled workers in the country must exert more effort and enhance their level of performance.
He said: “Our skilled workers need to work harder and sit up in the face of their competition from other parts of the World. Hence, our technical schools need to be revived, the reason for the importance of this training.”
In his statement, the event reflects the organizers’ commitment to promoting best practices in the industry as the country currently needs some of this expertise at this time.
He added: “One of the highlights of this year’s expo is the hands-on training, which will provide participants with the benefits of learning skills such as laser aligner for block setting, use of laser aligners and laser measures, use of robotic power tools, use of electronic painting machine, use of spray gum for paintings, solar panel installations, assembling of furniture, and smart electrification.
“This training will be delivered by professionals with extensive experience in the construction industry, giving participants the opportunity to learn from the best. The ‘hands-on’ training on the above skills and the building expo will provide participants with valuable insights into the application and installation of robotics and AI at homes, sustainable building practices, innovative materials and techniques, and the latest trends in architecture and design. These insights will be delivered through a range of workshops, seminars, and talks.”
