The Katsina State Government has empowered 634 youths on various skills and provided each with a trade-specific starter packs.
By Abbas Bamalli
The Katsina State Government has empowered 634 youths on various skills and provided each with a trade-specific starter packs.
Gov. Dikko Radda announced this on Thursday in Katsina, during the graduation of the youths from the state’s Youth Craft Village (KYCV).
He described the graduation as a defining moment in the journey of youth empowerment, skills development and inclusive growth in the state.
According to him, the presentation of trade-specific starter packs to each graduate was the first in the institution’s history, as the success was part of the state’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and self-reliance among its youth.
“Today’s event, the graduation of young men and women, is more than a ceremonial milestone. It’s a testament to our shared belief in the power of education, skill acquisition and opportunity as tools for transformation.”
He outlined comprehensive reforms that have repositioned KYCV to what he described as “a centre of excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)”.
According to Radda, these strategic initiatives include development of a business plan and sustainability framework to ensure long-term viability, and also international benchmarking through study tours to world-class institutions.
Radda revealed that KYCV has been integrated with key community-based facilities, including the multipurpose women centre, Groundnut processing centre and the Furniture production initiative for secondary schools.
“We believe that true learning must extend beyond the classroom. These partnerships provide trainees with real-world experience while benefiting their communities,” he explained.
Radda further announced plans to expand KYCV by introducing 10 new departments, along with major renovations and re-equipping of existing facilities, positioning it as a flagship institution for skills training and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
“These starter packs are not mere handouts, they are instruments of empowerment, designed to catalyse job creation, innovation, and economic independence.
“To ensure responsible use, the administration has implemented strict accountability measures, including formal agreements with graduates’ parents/guardians, robust monitoring systems, and security agency involvement.”
Also, the former governor of Katsina, Alhaji Ibrahim Shema, commended the initiative and the handlers.
“The impressive milestones that the KYCV has recorded over the years is due to the uncommon diligence, consummate dedication, and unyielding commitment of these Katsina sons and daughters to the ideals that birthed the KYCV from inception.
“Today, we’re witnesses to the further fulfillment of a grand vision as these vibrant young men and women formally graduate with skills in such diverse areas,” he said.
Earlier, the Coordinator of the craft village, Mr Kabir Abdullahi, lauded Radda’s unwavering support, and described the administration’s interventions as both visionary and impactful.
He also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a leading skills institution in Kano, to further enhance KYCV capacity and reach.
Abdullahi affirmed that all starter packs would be monitored through a comprehensive tracking system to ensure maximum impact.
According to him, the beneficiaries received hands-on training in 15 specialised trades, including tailoring, catering, ICT, shoemaking, welding, carpentry, GSM repairs, pottery, and leatherwork. (NAN)