The Federal Government, in collaboration with the EGO Foundation and Access Corporation, provided vocational training and starter kits to more than 120 artisans on Wednesday. The initiative, led by the Federal Ministry of Education, targeted skills in garment making, fashion design, beauty and cosmetology, solar installation, hospitality management, catering, and business management. Participants received hands-on instruction aimed at improving employability and supporting entrepreneurship.
Toluwase Olaniyan, Executive Director of EGO Foundation, stated the programme was designed to build technical expertise and business acumen for sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized the importance of equipping beneficiaries with practical knowledge to contribute to economic development. In addition to training, Access Corporation funded the distribution of work tools and starter kits to enable immediate application of acquired skills.
Olaniyan praised the Federal Ministry of Education for advancing vocational education and acknowledged Access Corporation's support in empowering artisans. He described the partnership as a demonstration of what can be achieved when government, private sector, and development organizations collaborate. "This initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved when government, the private sector and development organisations work together towards a common goal," he said.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, saying the training and tools would improve their economic prospects. Stakeholders reiterated the value of skills acquisition in addressing unemployment and promoting inclusive growth. The programme is part of broader efforts to strengthen vocational education and support self-employment among Nigerians.
The same government that has underfunded technical colleges for years now celebrates a privately sponsored tool giveaway as a major empowerment milestone. Access Corporation funded the starter kits, yet the Federal Ministry of Education takes equal credit for the intervention. If vocational training is now a priority, why do public technical institutions remain neglected and unfunded? The artisans got tools, but the system that failed them remains unchanged.
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