By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute of Vocational and Advanced Technology (NKFI), Lokoja, has recorded a 500 percent increase in student enrollment within three years, ßaccording to its Rector, Dr. Charles Williams.
Speaking with journalists in Lokoja over the weekend as part of events marking his three years in office, Dr. Williams said the institution’s population rose from 40 students in September 2022 to over 900 students by September 2025.
He attributed the growth to the institute’s commitment to technical excellence, innovative program offerings, and strengthened partnerships with both local and international institutions. “We have worked hard to reposition NKFI as a center of excellence in vocational and advanced technology education,” he said.
Dr. Williams announced that the institute has introduced new courses in Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Robotics to meet the demands of the modern workforce. He also noted improvements in campus infrastructure, including enhanced security systems, the deployment of an academic portal, and the launch of a dedicated website to improve administrative efficiency and student engagement.
The Rector further disclosed that all NKFI programs have received full accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The accredited courses include Automotive Mechatronics, Welding and Fabrication, Electrical/Electronic Technology, and Computer Software Engineering.
According to him, the institute has signed over ten Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Kogi State Polytechnic, the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), and the African Development Study Centre (ADSC) to strengthen collaboration in research, fabrication, and resource sharing.
On future expansion, Dr. Williams said NKFI has acquired land for its permanent site and plans to establish a part-time study center at Obajana, home to the Dangote Cement factory, to serve working-class learners and residents in the area.
He commended the Government and people of South Korea for their continued support through training initiatives and capacity-building programs for staff and students. “The Korea-Nigeria partnership has been instrumental to our success story. Their contributions in technology transfer and human development have greatly advanced our institutional capacity,” he stated.
Dr. Williams expressed appreciation to former Governor Yahaya Bello for appointing him as Rector and lauded Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining the administration’s support toward the institute’s vision. “Governor Ododo’s commitment to youth empowerment and vocational education aligns with NKFI’s mission to equip Kogi youths with globally relevant technical skills,” he added.
With its rapid growth, new academic offerings, and international collaborations, the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute continues to strengthen its role as a leading center for vocational and technological education in Nigeria.
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