Abuja: The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has finalized arrangements for the international certification examinations of 296 artisans in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of its Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) program. Dr. Afiz Ogun, Director-General of ITF, announced the planned exercise, emphasizing its importance in repositioning Nigerian artisans for global competitiveness and economic empowerment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the certification exams are scheduled to take place between May 18 and 19, supervised by Alberk QA Technic from Turkey. A total of 296 artisans trained under the SUPA initiative will participate in examinations across more than 20 high-demand vocational and technical skills, including fields such as Fashion Design, Welding and Fabrication, Cyber Security, Automechanics, and more.
Dr. Ogun highlighted that this certification exercise will validate the skills acquired by the artisans, offering them internationally recognized certification. He noted the involvement of Alberk QA Technic to ensure the credibility, transparency, and international acceptance of the certification process. He also recalled the approval of the ITF by the City and Guilds of London Institute as an examination center, which conducted a mock exam to prepare SUPA trainees for global certification standards.
Efforts are being made to provide Nigerian artisans with certifications that enhance their employability, mobility, productivity, and earning potential both locally and internationally. Dr. Ogun emphasized that technical and vocational skills are now key drivers of industrial growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development. Through SUPA, ITF aims to foster a new generation of highly skilled artisans contributing to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Following the exercises in the FCT, Alberk QA Technic will extend its certification services to other states in Nigeria for further batches of SUPA artisans. Dr. Ogun reaffirmed ITF’s commitment to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the country.