Abuja:The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a program providing free culinary arts and hospitality training to Nigerian youths to foster skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Khadija Fashina, CEO of Masterminds Academy for Tourism, Culinary Arts and Hospitality (MATCH), revealed details of the initiative during a student cook-off competition in Abuja. This program, supported by the Federal Ministry of Education and a World Bank initiative, aims to equip young Nigerians with practical skills to improve their livelihoods and contribute to economic growth.
Fashina emphasized that the students received training at no cost, with the Federal Government sponsoring their participation. She highlighted the program’s potential to renew hope among Nigerian youths, especially those facing economic challenges and limited job prospects.
The initiative has already shown success, as some beneficiaries of a previous cohort have established businesses, secured employment, and even become employers themselves. This demonstrates the transformative impact of practical education in achieving economic independence for young people.
MATCH is also introducing a National Diploma program in Hospitality Management and Leisure and Tourism, offering further academic and professional development opportunities for young Nigerians.
Felix Osaghae, Vice-Chairperson of the Abuja Chapter of the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria, noted the initiative’s potential to spur economic growth by promoting self-employment and job creation. He stressed the importance of proper guidance and adherence to professional standards for effective skill application.
Chiamaka Nwakalor-Egemba, founder of Dish La Afrique and keynote speaker, advocated for documenting indigenous Nigerian recipes and traditional cooking techniques to preserve culinary heritage. She encouraged collaboration among chefs to promote Nigerian ingredients and emphasized the importance of continuous learning and discipline for aspiring chefs.
Ngozi Obasa, chief judge of the competition and a representative of the Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria, praised the students for their creativity, organization, and attention to food safety. The competition allowed participants to showcase their cooking techniques, creativity, and understanding of food hygiene.
Amina Suleyman, a student participant, shared that the cook-off competition provided an opportunity to apply the practical knowledge gained during the training, highlighting food preparation, seasoning, and presentation skills.