Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government will on Saturday launch a three-month intensive vocational training programme for 100 young people in the state, focusing on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), construction, building, and production.
According to the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Leo Ekene Oketa, the programme is part of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s drive to promote vocational and technical education as a key strategy for revamping the state’s education sector and tackling youth unemployment.
Oketa said the training, to be implemented by the State Ministry of Skill Development and Job Creation, will cover areas such as data analysis, video editing, graphic design, photography, solar and CCTV installation, interior decoration, cream production, candle making, wood cladding, paint production, wig revamping, and entrepreneurship.
He noted that participants will receive empowerment support upon completing the training, which is aimed at equipping them with market-relevant skills for both employment and entrepreneurship.
The Special Assistant said the initiative aligns with the Governor’s People’s Charter of Needs policy, which emphasises practical skills acquisition to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace demands.
Oketa highlighted previous partnerships under the Nwifuru administration, including a collaboration with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in November 2024 to train 100 youths in modern electrical installation.
He also recalled the government’s partnership with BERWO in August 2024 for skills training in fashion design, hairdressing, barbing, shoemaking, and almaco glass construction, as well as agribusiness training in Enugu.
“These initiatives are part of the Governor’s commitment to drive technological and industrial growth, promote entrepreneurship, and foster lifelong learning among Ebonyi youths,” Oketa said.
