Gwagwalada:Fifty youths have embarked on a six-month training program in fashion design and garment-making under the World Bank-backed IDEAS-TVET initiative in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the IDEAS-TVET program, which stands for Innovation, Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills, is a World Bank-supported Technical and Vocational Education and Training initiative. This program is designed to equip participants with practical skills that can lead to employment or entrepreneurship.
The training, facilitated by Everest Heights Ltd. in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, aims to provide unemployed and disadvantaged Nigerians with self-reliance skills. Dr. Olubukola Dosunmu, Co-Founder of Everest Heights Ltd., noted that the center was selected as an approved training venue after a rigorous proposal and accreditation process.
Fifty participants from Gwagwalada were recruited in partnership with the Saba Foundation and other local organizations. The comprehensive training includes sewing, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and internship, preparing participants for sustainable livelihoods.
Participants are expected to attend classes three to four days a week for at least five hours daily. The program goes beyond sewing, focusing also on entrepreneurial skills and business sustainability. Everest Heights is also engaging stakeholders to provide post-training support, such as tailoring machines and grants.
The training center offers additional courses in areas like electrical installation, solar installation, digital marketing, and more. Dr. Dosunmu encouraged participants to fully utilize the opportunity, highlighting the Federal Government’s support, including free training and transport stipends.
Hajiya Yinka Mohammed, wife of the Gwagwalada Area Council Chairman, emphasized the program’s potential to empower women, particularly vulnerable groups. She called on participants to take the training seriously and avoid complacency.
Hajiya Fatimah Muhammad, wife of the Aguma of Gwagwalada, reaffirmed the traditional institution’s commitment to supporting women and youth empowerment, facilitating the inclusion of beneficiaries in the training. Her foundation plans to provide starter packs for graduates to help sustain their new skills.
Prof. Adeniran Lateef from Yakubu Gowon University commended the initiative and encouraged trainees to innovate in fashion design to boost their earnings. He noted the government’s efforts in promoting entrepreneurship skills among undergraduates.