From Mustapha Saye, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, is committed to producing a skilled workforce that will enable youths to be self-reliant and attractive to tech companies.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner of Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Fakai, during a quarterly ministerial briefing.
According to Mrs. Fakai, the government has constructed three Skills Acquisition Cities in Soba, Rigachikun, and Samarun Kataf, which are expected to graduate 12,000 youths in the first year and 24,000 by the second year in 13 trade areas.
The skills to be taught include welding, aluminum fabrication, fashion design, and solar panel installation.
The commissioner noted that the youths will receive certifications from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and hopes that most of the unemployed youths who undergo the training will become self-reliant or be employed by reputable companies.
Additionally, the government plans to transform the Panteka Market into an industrial hub, providing ICT facilities, road networks, clinics, and fire stations. The artisans in the market will also receive National Skills Qualification Framework certification.
The Ministry of Business Innovation and Technology has also organized Career Fairs, connecting over 300 job seekers with employers. Jobberman has set up Job Centers in the state, providing opportunities for youths to check available jobs and receive guidance on the application process.
Other initiatives include training 5,100 women in ICT through the AREWA LADIES-4-TECH program, with over 60 women securing employment after the training.
The state has also hosted the third Nigeria Computer Society Summit and received awards for its efforts in promoting ICT knowledge and innovation.