The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has commended the federal government's vocational training and empowerment initiative, describing it as a game changer in addressing poverty and unemployment among young Nigerians. This initiative is part of the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS). The programme aims to enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and economic independence among beneficiaries.
The initiative was brought to the Olubadan's attention by Dr. Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (TVEE). During a courtesy visit to the Olubadan's palace in Ibadan, Arogundade briefed him on the ongoing vocational training and empowerment programme in Oyo state. The programme currently focuses on fashion design, artificial intelligence (AI), and makeup artistry.
The Olubadan expressed his elation and lauded Arogundade for the initiative, emphasizing that it equips beneficiaries with practical skills to become self-reliant and contribute to Nigeria's economic development. He encouraged others in similar positions to emulate Arogundade, highlighting the programme's potential to empower people and reduce poverty in society.
Oba Ladoja urged influential individuals and organisations to invest in practical skills acquisition and income-generating opportunities for more Nigerians. According to him, vocational training can provide sustainable sources of income and help beneficiaries overcome economic hardship. This, he believes, will have a positive impact on the community.
The current training programme in Ibadan has 200 youths in Oyo state undergoing vocational training. The programme, which lasts for 10 days, focuses on graphics design and AI, makeup artistry, and fashion design. At the end of the programme, participants will receive work tools to establish themselves and earn a living.
In addition to the 200 participants, an extra 700 beneficiaries will receive tablets to strengthen their digital capabilities and economic opportunities. Arogundade described the briefing as important, given the programme's scale and its potential to empower residents of Ibadanland.
The Olubadan's endorsement of the initiative highlights its potential to make a significant impact in Nigeria. With the programme's focus on equipping young people with practical skills, it is expected to contribute to the country's economic development and reduce poverty.
Key points
- The federal government's vocational training and empowerment initiative aims to enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and economic independence among young Nigerians.
- The programme currently focuses on fashion design, artificial intelligence (AI), and makeup artistry, with 200 youths in Oyo state undergoing training.
- The initiative has the potential to empower people and reduce poverty in society, with the Olubadan urging others to emulate Arogundade.
