FCT Empowers Residents with Free Skills Training
In a proactive move to address unemployment and enhance self-reliance among residents, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has rolled out a free one-week holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training across Abuja.
The program, launched by the FCT Education Secretariat through its Department of Mass Education, is organized in collaboration with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services.
Speaking at the flag-off event, Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and skills acquisition as critical tools for economic empowerment. He reaffirmed the Wike-led administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and applauded the collaboration between government and NGOs in preparing residents for income-generating ventures.
“This training is more than just learning skills. It is a key strategy to build resilience, promote self-reliance and reduce unemployment in our communities,” Dr. Hayyo stated.
Director of the Department of Mass Education, Dr. Favour Edem Nse, described the initiative as a step toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children and equipping women, youths, and children with valuable life skills.
Participants are being trained in various practical areas including soap and disinfectant production, snacks preparation, bookkeeping, branding, and social media marketing. In addition to hands-on sessions, the program includes mentorship and promises post-training support to help trainees kick-start their entrepreneurial journeys.
“This is not just about skills. It is about transforming lives,” Dr. Edem Nse remarked, expressing gratitude to the Education Secretariat for supporting the life-changing initiative.
The training has already attracted enthusiastic participation and is set to continue throughout the week, with facilitators offering mentorship to ensure participants get the most out of the experience.
