Unpaid TVET trainees across the country have appealed to the federal government to immediately pay delayed outstanding stipends, saying the funds are crucial for transportation and consistent attendance at training centres.
The appeal comes shortly after the Federal Ministry of Education made it compulsory for all trainees to complete biometric verification before they can receive payments. Trainees say while they support accountability, the unpaid stipends are causing serious hardship.
In a formal appeal addressed to the Honourable Minister of Education through the appropriate department, the trainees appreciated the Federal Government for initiating and sustaining the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme, noting its role in skills acquisition and youth empowerment nationwide.
However, they said many trainees are yet to receive their stipends, adding that the delay has created financial strain. “The stipend is essential for covering transportation, feeding, and other basic daily needs, especially considering the prevailing economic situation,” the trainees said.
They explained that the lack of payment has affected attendance and motivation. According to them, “The delay has made it increasingly difficult for trainees to attend training consistently and remain motivated.”
The trainees also raised concerns about the biometric attendance system recently introduced by the ministry. They appealed for a review, upgrade and re-strategization of the system, citing technical and operational challenges at training centres.
“Many training centre administrators are currently experiencing serious difficulties enrolling trainees on the biometric platform due to technical and operational challenges,” the letter stated. They added that these issues have disrupted attendance tracking and, in some cases, affected stipend processing.
In their appeal, the trainees asked the minister to intervene by ensuring the prompt payment of all outstanding stipends to ease current hardship. They also requested that the biometric attendance system be reviewed, upgraded and restructured to make enrollment and attendance smoother and more accessible.
The trainees expressed confidence that timely intervention would help sustain the objectives of the TVET programme, improve trainee welfare and ensure the smooth running of the initiative.
They thanked the Honourable Minister for his time and commitment to education and skills development, adding, “We remain hopeful and confident in your kind consideration.”
The letter was signed collectively by the TVET trainees. The appeal highlights growing concern among trainees nationwide as economic pressures persist and training continuity depends heavily on timely stipends and functional verification systems nationwide today
