Utilization of Information and Communication Technology in Technical, Vocational Education and Training: A Way Forward for Developing Competencies for 21st Century in Nigeria

ICTs are revolutionizing education by removing distance from education and making knowledge more accessible to every individual around the globe. Technology-enhanced learning will play a critical role in the development of a lifelong learning culture, and has the capacity to empower learners by providing them with multiple pathways that offer choices and channels to meet their education and training needs. It is not surprising, therefore, to see a growing interest in technology-based learning across the world. The automation of TVET workshop and machineries could be a turning point in educational system in Nigeria. The systematic approaches of using ICT-mediated learning in the classroom environment is to strengthening productivity, encourage self-employment for the youths and as well as contribute positively to the economic growth. Besides portraying the various ways in which the use of ICT promotes teaching and learning, it has become central to education in the 21st century. Unfortunately, TVET in Nigeria has been observed to be neglected and substandard due to non-utilization of ICT facilities to meet the need of modern day employers in the labour market. Thus the paper intends to examine the concept of ICT, utilization of ICT, concept of TVET, the necessity for utilization of ICT –mediated learning in TVET and what are competencies for 21st century? Additionally, the paper discussed the major challenges/.barriers on the utilization of ICT in TVET, application of ICT in TVET institutions in Nigeria, the theory of Digital Natives that is very relevant to the paper and as well as enormous benefits of ICT in TVET. It was concluded that the use of ICT is globally recognized as a veritable tool that should be employ for teaching and learning processes in educational fields especially in TVET. It was also recommended amongst others, that Nigeria government should provide the necessary ICT facilities in TVET institutions, as well as conscious effort should be made for adequate planning, financing, monitoring and implementation of the vision, mission and objectives to achieve the ICT policy document on TVET through effective management of limited resources.