*Kogi State Takes Bold Step to Tackle Unemployment with Free Vocational Training Program*

The Kogi State Government has launched a vocational training initiative to address unemployment among its youths. The Honorable Commissioner of Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Jibrin Saidu Alhaji, flagged off the distribution of skills acquisition forms for youths in the state.

Dr. Alhaji emphasized the importance of skills acquisition, citing an example of someone who acquired a certificate but never used it to secure a white-collar job. Instead, this person became successful through vocational skills. Dr. Alhaji encouraged the youths to take advantage of this opportunity, saying, "You are lucky to have this chance. The government is committed to touching every sector, and this skills acquisition program is a vital part of that effort."

The program is designed to make youths relevant in today's society and reduce unemployment and insecurity in the state. 

Dr. Alhaji also assured the participants that the state government was committed to the success of the program. . He urged the participants to take the program seriously and make the most of the opportunity.

Dr. Aminu Atabo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Adult Informal and Vocational Education, commended the state government's efforts to empower its youths. He noted that the program is part of the government's broader vision to unlock economic opportunities and drive sustainable development across the state.

Dr. Atabo revealed that the state government has partnered with several institutions, including the Nigeria-Korea Friendship institute, the State College of Education Technical ,Dangote training institute and others to provide training for the participants. He expressed confidence that the program will have a positive impact on the lives of the participants and the state as a whole.

Alhaji Husseini Abubàkar, a consultant in the program, praised His Excellency, the Governor of Kogi State, for his initiatives to ensure the state is free of crime and other societal ills. He noted that the people of Kogi State can now sleep with their two eyes closed, thanks to the Governor's efforts.,

Abubàkar also expressed his gratitude to the Honorable Commissioner for his contributions to the education sector and also appreciated the Permanent secretary  for his humility and dedication to the ministry.

Furthermore, Abubàkar commended Dr. Aminu Atabo for his role in the program describing him as a man of many credentitials who is  a giant in various fields, including education, politics, and humanity, and an asset to the ministry.

Oruma Michael, one of the beneficiaries of the program, lauded the state government's efforts to empower its youths. "I'd like to acknowledge the efforts of Dr. Aminu Atabo, a man who has made a significant impact on the lives of youths . His dedication to empowering us is commendable," Michael said.

Michael encouraged fellow participants to take the program seriously, saying, "We've acquired certificates, but it's the skills we acquire here that will truly empower us. Let's make the most of this opportunity and become experts in our chosen fields."

The program offers various courses, including interior decor, graphic design, computer applications, software development, fishery and poultry, automobile mechanics, and furniture making. Agricultural activities will also be introduced as part of the program.

With this initiative, Kogi State is taking a significant step towards empowering its youths and driving economic growth. The program is open to all youths in the state. Highlights of the event was the presentation of the skills acquisition forms to the beneficiaries who cut across the state.

Hassan Abubàkar -Editor.