The Federal Government has praised the Governor of Babagana Zulum of Borno State for advancing technical and vocational education in the state, following the graduation of about 3,000 trainees from nine Vocational Enterprise Institutes and Centres.
The commendation was conveyed in a statement issued on Sunday by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.
According to the statement, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a significant move toward equipping Nigerian youths with practical skills needed for employment and self-reliance.
Alausa noted that the programme not only provided training but also supported graduates with starter packs and an entrepreneurship grant of ₦100,000 each to help them begin productive ventures.
He explained that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places strong emphasis on youth empowerment and economic inclusion through skills acquisition.
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The minister further disclosed that the Federal Government is currently implementing a nationwide Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme designed to create about 250,000 training opportunities for young Nigerians.
According to him, more than 180,000 youths are already undergoing training across various centres in the country as part of the scheme.
Alausa added that the programme follows an 80–20 model, with 80 per cent of the training focused on practical work and 20 per cent on theoretical learning, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience that meets industry standards.
He also revealed that a national TVET job portal is being developed to link trained graduates with employment opportunities in relevant industries, while artisans will also benefit from starter packs and access to affordable loans.
The minister reaffirmed that the Federal Government remains committed to expanding skills development initiatives to promote youth empowerment and stimulate economic growth nationwide.