FG Urged To Upgrade Skills Centres For Job Creation

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), She 4 She Initiative, has appealed to the federal government to prioritise equipping the country’s skills acquisition centres to create more jobs for the teeming youths.

The appeal highlights the critical need for enhanced vocational training facilities to empower the youth and reduce unemployment.

The group made the request at a seminar with the theme, “Nigerian Youth: Importance of Skill Acquisition for Economic Growth”, in commemoration of World Youth Skills Day.

At the event, the founder of She 4 She Initiative, Oyanbo Owei, said modernising the centres and providing them with up-to-date equipment will significantly contribute to developing a skilled workforce. By doing so, the centre can better prepare individuals for various trades and industries, ultimately boosting the local economy.

Owei said investing in skills acquisition is essential for sustainable development because it equips individuals with practical skills that are in demand, fosters economic growth, and reduces poverty.

“The call for action has been met with positive responses from various community leaders and stakeholders, who also recognise the importance of a well-equipped skills acquisition centre in driving regional development,” she said.

Owei urged the government to take swift and decisive action to address this vital issue.

Also, the CEO of Edibles and Flowers, Ingonabo Maureen Amada, said the relevance of skills acquisition cannot be overemphasised. “It equips you and goes a long way, even far beyond your formal education. I’m talking about classroom work. Acquiring skills from every sector can help.”