Bennett Oghifo:
In an exciting development for Nigeria’s architectural landscape, the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (FMHUD) has joined forces with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to establish a new School of Architectural Technicians (SAT) in Abuja. I spoke with Minister Ahmed Dangiwa, an architect himself, who expressed his enthusiastic support for this initiative, aimed at enhancing architecture and improving quality in the construction sector.
Situated in the tranquil environment of Kuje in the Federal Capital Territory, the School of Architectural Technicians will offer high-quality education and practical training in architectural technology. The goal is to develop skilled technicians equipped to contribute to Nigeria’s growing architectural and construction industries.
During a recent tour of the facility, ARCON President Chief Oladipupo Ajayi praised Minister Dangiwa for his commitment to elevating the standards of architecture and the built environment in Nigeria. “This facility has been here, and those who follow our supervising minister’s announcements know he is deeply passionate about preventing building collapses in Nigeria. As a professional in the field, he is committed to enhancing the sector,” Ajayi said.
Ajayi revealed that ARCON plans to develop a curriculum that aligns with industry standards and emphasizes skill acquisition relevant to the built environment. The center aims to welcome 200 students in its inaugural academic year and has begun discussions with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for accreditation and certification.
Further, Ajayi noted that this initiative supports the council’s objective of determining the necessary knowledge and skills for aspiring architectural professionals. He emphasized that the approval for the center comes at a critical time, as Nigeria’s urbanization and infrastructure growth create a significant need for skilled architectural technicians.
The center will be equipped with essential facilities, including offices, classrooms, workshops, seminar rooms, hostels for students, a restaurant, and a generator-powered power house. Programs offered will range from diplomas in architectural technology to certificates in Building Information Modeling (BIM), project management, sustainable architecture, and construction management. Additionally, short courses will focus on hard skills like masonry, plumbing, electrical installations, and plaster of Paris (POP) installations.
Council registrar Sule Utopa highlighted the need for the school, given the rapid and ongoing changes in construction technology. Ark. (Prof.) Sati Yohana, a council member, expressed his excitement over the new center and commended Minister Dangiwa for his initiative. “This center, realized through the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and Minister Dangiwa, will foster a stronger relationship between architecture and society,” he stated.
Yohana added that the center will eventually provide training for community members, aiding in skill acquisition. “Our resource persons will include both practicing professionals and academic experts, ensuring that the training delivered is top-notch. This initiative will undoubtedly be transformative for the sector and enhance the quality of architecture in Nigeria,” he concluded.
In a related event, notable figures such as Entertainment ICON Bob-Manuel Udoko, Managing Director of PWAN Champion Dr. Benedict Abuduibhadon, and others gathered for the Champions Night and Awards in Lagos, celebrating achievements in the industry.
