The Federal Ministry of Education has officially flagged off its Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) programme under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative at the Federal University of Education, Zaria.
A statement signed by Sani Lawal maqarphy media aide to the Vice Chancellor said the IDEAS-TVET initiative is designed to equip youths with practical, industry-relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship. Participants receive stipends during the training period as well as starter packs upon successful completion.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Yahaya Isa Bunkure, expressed appreciation to the Ministry for selecting the University, through its Directorate of Skills Development and Linkages, as a Training Service Provider for the impactful initiative.
He also thanked the Ministry for choosing the institution as host for the official flag-off ceremony, which drew participants from various training centres across the state.
Under the programme, the University’s Training Centre will train about 100 participants in Fashion Design and Garment Making for six months. Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation will train participants in Fashion Design and Leather Work, while the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) will train trainees in Autobody Work.
The Vice-Chancellor described the IDEAS-TVET programme as a laudable initiative of the Federal Government, stressing that students of the University, particularly those in their final year, must participate in skills acquisition programmes of their choice before graduation.
He emphasised that the University has made skills acquisition mandatory for all final-year students, in its drive to produce productive and self-reliant graduates.
According to him, the policy will not only enhance employability but also significantly reduce unemployment by encouraging entrepreneurship among graduates.
While officially declaring the programme open, Mr. Markus Idoko, who represented the Ministry, stated that the IDEAS-TVET initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He disclosed that the Ministry has trained over 40,000 participants under the IDEAS-TVET programme nationwide.
He noted that the initiative provides participants with practical tools and access to opportunities that will contribute meaningfully to poverty reduction and the fight against insecurity in the country.
Also speaking at the flag-off ceremony, which took place at Dr. Suleiman Balarabe Senate Chambers in the University, was the IDEAS National Project Coordinator, Mrs. Blessing Ogwu disclosed that the Federal Government has established extensive monitoring mechanisms to ensure the programme’s success.
The National Project Coordinator emphasised that attendance is mandatory, stating that participants’ progress in the programme is determined by their attendance record, with a minimum of 70 per cent compulsory attendance.
She urged all participants to make the most of the opportunity, stressing that practical skills are essential complements to academic certificates.
Mrs. Ogwu also commended Dr. Amina Sani, Director of the Directorate of Skills Development and Linkages, for her commitment to the programme.
In attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Suleiman Balarabe; the Acting Registrar, Alh. Shehu Iya Sa’idu; the Acting Bursar, Alh. Muhammad Kabiru; the Director of Audit, Alh. Dahiru Garba; Dr. Amina Sani, Director, Skills Development and Linkages; and Dr. Joshua Odeleye, representing the Director-General of NITT.Also present were Directors, Heads of Units, Desk Officers, and leaders of staff unions.
