FG, ITF collaborate to equip five million Nigerian artisans

The Federal Government in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has come up with an initiative tagged ” Skill-up Artisans to upskill, license, and empower five million Nigerian artisans in a year.

The Director-General, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin, disclosed this on Tuesday at a workshop titled ‘Design and Development of Curriculum for the Up-Skill Artisans SUPA’ held at the headquarters of the Fund in Jos, Plateau State.

Oluwatoyin pointed out that the initiative under SUPA will be carried out by collecting data on Nigerian artisans through massive training, certification, and licensing for better job opportunities for both local and international artisans.

He enumerated that one of the purposes of the program was to ensure that Nigerian artisans access essential tools, equipment, and funds to expand their trades and equally enhance employment opportunities for artisans in local and international markets.

“Another benefit is to provide economic empowerment for artisans by equipping them with employable skills that enhance their earning potential and contribute to poverty reduction. Also to improve the overall quality of service provided by indigenous artisans, thereby reducing dependence on foreign artisans.”

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The Director-General equally disclosed that the initiative will further empower those who want to travel out of the country for greener pastures, adding that it is essential for the young ones who want to “Japa” to arm themselves with the requisite skills to make their relocation meaningful.

“Instead of going there for menial jobs, if you are armed with the requisite skills, getting a job anywhere in the world will not be a problem. This program is also meant to empower the young, no matter their background,” he said.

The Director-General, who was represented at the occasion by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Olasupo Abimbola, said the joint initiative between the federal government and ITF also reflects the government’s commitment to promote economic development and improve the standard of living of citizens across the industry.