By Peter Omopo
The Federal Government has commended the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, for strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training in the state following the graduation of about 3,000 trainees from nine Vocational Enterprise Institutes and Centres.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade.
According to the statement, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a significant step toward equipping young Nigerians with practical and employable skills.
Alausa noted that the graduates were provided with starter packs and a ₦100,000 entrepreneurship grant each to support their transition into productive economic activities.
He said the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises youth empowerment and economic inclusion through skills development.
The minister added that the Federal Government is implementing a nationwide Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme designed to provide about 250,000 training opportunities for young Nigerians.
According to him, more than 180,000 youths are already undergoing training in centres across the country under the initiative.
He explained that the training model emphasises 80 per cent practical training and 20 per cent theoretical instruction to ensure that participants acquire hands-on skills that meet industry demands.
Alausa also disclosed that a national TVET job portal is currently being developed to connect skilled graduates with employment opportunities while supporting artisans with starter packs and access to affordable loans.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Education to expanding skills development programmes as part of efforts to empower young people and promote economic growth in the country.
