NDE and CATS Forge Partnership to Empower One Million Youths with Construction Skills
The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and the Construction Artisan Training School (CATS) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to initiate Project 1 Million Construction Artisan Training Vision 2036. This landmark collaboration is designed to provide comprehensive training and empowerment to one million Nigerian youths over the next decade, focusing on a wide range of construction and artisan skills, all offered at no cost to participants.
Ambitious Initiative Aims to Bridge Skills Gap
The programme, fully funded by CATS and its strategic partners, is structured to eliminate financial barriers, ensuring that eligible candidates from across Nigeria can access high-quality vocational training. By leveraging the NDE's extensive nationwide network of training centres, the initiative will utilize state-of-the-art facilities and expert instructors to deliver practical, industry-relevant education.
Key objectives of the project include:
- Equipping youths with in-demand skills in the construction sector.
- Enhancing employability and fostering entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Addressing the significant skills deficit in Nigeria's construction industry.
- Promoting sustainable economic growth through youth empowerment.
Leadership Voices Optimism and Commitment
Dr. Olayemi Rotimi-Shodimu, the Project Leader from CATS, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership. "This collaboration is a game-changer for Nigeria's youth," he stated. "By working closely with the NDE, we are poised to make a substantial impact in tackling the country's construction skills shortage and creating meaningful opportunities for our young population."
Hon. Silas Agara, the Director-General of the NDE, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the alignment with the directorate's core mission. "We are deeply committed to empowering Nigerian youths with skills that drive economic growth," he noted. "This partnership with CATS resonates with our mandate to promote employment and entrepreneurship, and we eagerly anticipate transforming the lives of one million youths through this groundbreaking initiative."
Programme Structure and Future Prospects
The training will cover various aspects of construction and artisan work, including but not limited to carpentry, masonry, electrical installations, and plumbing. Participants will benefit from hands-on learning experiences, mentorship programmes, and potential pathways to employment or business startup support upon completion. The initiative is expected to roll out in phases, with regular assessments to ensure effectiveness and adaptability to industry needs.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in Nigeria's efforts to harness the potential of its youth demographic, contributing to national development and reducing unemployment rates in the construction sector.
