By Isiyaka Ismail Wunti
In Bauchi State, eight hundred youths and women have been trained in various entrepreneurial skills and presented with starter packs under the Supported Inclusive Basic Service Delivery Programme.
The initiative which was a collaboration between the State, Federal Government and African Development Bank aims to empower beneficiaries across the twenty local government areas of the state.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Bauchi, Governor Bala Mohammed described the programme as a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing youth restiveness and reducing dependence on white-collar jobs.
He commended the Federal Government and the African Development Bank for their vital roles in ensuring the programme’s success and called for sustainance of the collaborative effort.
The State Project Coordinator, Alhaji Garba Babaji Magaji stated that the starter packs were provided to support the trained beneficiaries in establishing businesses in their respective communities to promote self-reliance.
He also praised the discipline and dedication of the beneficiaries throughout the months-long training and urged them to utilize the tools responsibly to improve their livelihoods.
The twenty two vocational trades covered under the programme include aluminium fabrication, barbing, carpentry, electrical and solar installation, computer operations and maintenance, photography and video production, plumbing and water fitting, and GSM device repairs, among others.