UNICEF in collaboration with Borno State Government has enrolled 1,000 out of school youth and adolescents for vocational training under the Safe, inclusive Learning and Skills for All (SILSA) project.
In her message presented at the matriculation ceremony of the youths at the Borno State Vocational Enterprise Institute in Maiduguri on Monday, the Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Maiduguri, Phuong Nguyen, said the project was funded by the Norwegian Government.
“Through the funding from the Government of Norway, UNICEF will be supporting Borno State Government through the Ministry of Education Science, Technology, and Innovation to train 4,800 adolescents/out of school youth by 2025.
“Out of this number, 3,200 beneficiaries will be trained this year.
“UNICEF plans to provide them with starter packs after graduation .
“It is expected that the knowledge and skills to be acquired will encourage them to pursue their education and engage in businesses to build their self-reliance, ” Nguyen said.
While reiterating UNICEF’s commitment to sustain partnership with Borno in promoting education, she tasked the trainees to ensure regular attendance and participation.
In his remarks, the Borno Commissioner of Education, Engr. Lawan Wakilbe, who lauded UNICEF for the project which he said was in line with the state government development plan.
Wakilbe said that the 1,000 trainees who are the first batch were selected from Bama, Mafa and Jere Local Government Areas.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Hajiya Yakaru Mustapha, Wakilbe urged the trainees to face the training with the required determination.
Also speaking, Coordinator of Borno Vocational Institute handling the training, Engr. Zakariya Ahmed, said the beneficiaries would be provided three months training in various skills of their choice including tie and dye, solar and electrical installations.
Many of the beneficiaries in their reactions lauded the initiative which they said has provided them with an opportunity to be self-reliant in improving themselves, their families and communities.
Highlight of the occasion was the administration of oath on the trainees.
