The House of Representatives has taken a significant step forward by passing a bill for its second reading, advocating for the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture and Vocational Studies in Ako-Nike, Enugu State.
This legislative move, spearheaded by Professor Paul Nnamchi, the representative for Enugu East/Isi-uzo Federal Constituency, aims to enhance accessibility to agricultural technological and vocational education across the nation.
The bill, officially titled “A Bill to Amend Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004,” seeks to incorporate provisions for the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture and Vocational Studies in Ako-Nike, situated in the Enugu East local government area of Enugu State. The primary focus is on fostering sustainable development and supplying pertinent information for citizens.
During the lead debate, Professor Nnamchi articulated that the proposed legislation aligns with the parliament’s dedication to sustainable development and the provision of relevant knowledge for the populace. He emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the bill, stating, “The essence of this bill is to provide a highly specialized institution that disseminates knowledge related to the development of sustainable agriculture, technology, applied vocational, and allied fields of studies.”
Nnamchi outlined the threefold objectives of the bill, emphasizing the creation of a specialized institution, the integration of vocational studies with traditional education to meet industry demands for skilled workers, and the establishment of a foundation for a prosperous and sustainable future.
He added, “Once this Federal College of Agriculture and Vocational Studies is established in this place, it would not only bridge the gap in nonexistent sustainable agriculture technology and vocational studies in the country, it will also engender a skilled workforce for our Federation.”
Following the successful passage for the second reading, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas referred the bill to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, marking a pivotal moment in the legislative process aimed at advancing agricultural and vocational education in Nigeria.
