The Katsina government has empowered 634 youths with various skills and provided each with a trade-specific starter pack.

Governor Dikko Radda made the announcement on Thursday in Katsina, during the graduation ceremony of the youths from the state’s Youth Craft Village.

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 marked the first time in the institution’s history, as the initiative 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,” Mr Radda said.

The governor outlined comprehensive reforms that have repositioned KYCV to what he described as “a centre of excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training”.

According to Mr Radda, these strategic initiatives include the development of a business plan and a sustainability framework to ensure long-term viability, as well as international benchmarking through study tours to world-class institutions.

Mr Radda revealed that KYCV has been integrated with key community-based facilities, including the multipurpose women’s centre, the groundnut processing centre and the furniture production initiative for secondary schools.

Mr 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.

Former Governor Ibrahim Shema commended the initiative and the handlers.

“The impressive milestones that the KYCV has recorded over the years are 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,” he said.

Earlier, Kabir Abdullahi, the coordinator of the craft village, 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 with a leading skills institution in Kano to enhance KYCV capacity further and reach.

Mr 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)