The Yobe State Government has trained Almajiri students and other vulnerable youths in solar installation, welding and fabrication, carpentry, tailoring and fashion design, agriculture, and catering as part of its efforts to equip them with employable skills, promote self-reliance and enhance sustainable livelihoods.
The programme, being implemented through the Yobe State Arabic and Islamic Education Board (AISEB), is a key component of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s reform of the Almajiri education system, aimed at complementing religious and conventional education with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
A statement issued by the Focal Person to the Governor on Digital and Strategic Communications, Yusuf Ali, Beneficiaries are undergoing intensive theoretical and practical training across six vocational departments including Solar Installation Technology, Welding and Fabrication, Carpentry, Tailoring and Fashion Design, Agriculture, and Catering and Hospitality.
In the Carpentry Department, 30 trainees are receiving practical instruction in woodworking and furniture production, where they have designed and produced wardrobes, tables, chairs, shelves and other household items geared towards preparing them for self-employment and careers in the furniture industry.
Thirty-three beneficiaries in the Welding and Fabrication Department are being trained in modern welding techniques, metal fabrication and workplace safety and were equipped with protective gear, including helmets, goggles, face shields and gloves, the trainees are producing a range of fabricated metal products while acquiring skills relevant to the construction and engineering sectors.
The Tailoring and Fashion Design Department has the highest enrolment, with 70 trainees learning garment making, pattern drafting, fabric cutting, sewing techniques and clothing repairs and the participants are expected to receive sewing machines and other essential tools upon completion of the programme to enable them establish their own businesses.
Under the Solar Installation Technology Department, trainees are receiving practical instruction in the installation, wiring, testing, maintenance and troubleshooting of solar energy systems.
The programme is designed to prepare beneficiaries for employment and entrepreneurship in Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector.
To ensure sustainable impact, the state government will provide graduates of all six vocational departments with start-up tools and equipment relevant to their trades, enabling them to immediately translate their newly acquired skills into productive ventures.