The Niger State government has donated N10 million to the beneficiaries of the Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI) vocational training programme.
The Farmer Governor of Niger State, Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, made the symbolic donation on Monday when the management of the institute presented graduates of its pilot scheme vocational training at the Government House, Minna.
He said the donation was to serve as a start-up pack for them.
The governor, who underscored the importance of acquiring skills, especially among the youth, said it was on that basis that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in the state was directed to include vocational training in the schools.
While appreciating the efforts of SEDI in promoting local production, he suggested that a skills acquisition programme be organised for members of the state executive council.
He gave assurance that the skills acquisition programme will be sustained and that the number of beneficiaries will increase to 400 annually.
The Managing Director of SEDI, Prof. Muhammad Ndaliman, said the vocational training started with young people from Minna and environs who were nominated by community leaders.
Prof. Ndaliman said 65 people were trained in various fields and assessed through examinations, adding that those who stood out were rewarded with tools.
He said the scheme started with five different areas and is already expanding, while plans are underway in the coming months to sponsor youth from across the 25 local government areas of the state who will be on school vacation.
He appreciated the support of the farmer governor for the success of the programme.
Some products of the trainees were also presented.