The Yikodeen footwear manufacturing company has joined forces with the federal government to introduce an extensive shoemaking and leather crafting training program. Spearheaded by Yinka Atunde, CEO of Yikodeen, the initiative will also receive support from Lodoni Company Ltd, the Nigerian Army, and Stitches and Prints Ltd.
Abiola Arogundade, senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu on technical vocational and entrepreneurship education, revealed the program’s inauguration on Saturday. Aimed at empowering 100 young Nigerians, the training focuses on those eager to master the art of shoemaking and leather craftsmanship.
Read also:
- U.S. to scale up trade and investment in Africa, unveils new strategy for 2025
- Apply now: Get faster citizenship, business permits with FG’s new digital platform
- Apply now: Get up to ₦500,000 in non-repayable grant for your business
The program’s central goal is to equip aspiring artisans with a comprehensive skill set covering footwear design, prototyping, pattern grading, upper preparation, footwear production, and materials knowledge. Conducted as a month-long intensive training, sessions will take place from Mondays to Saturdays, 9 am to 2 pm.
The curriculum includes lectures, practical exercises, weekly assignments, and bi-weekly assessments. Each class, accommodating 33 participants, ensures personalized attention from a team of 10 seasoned trainers, each possessing a minimum of a decade’s expertise in leatherwork.
Held at the Yikodeen Factory in Isolo, the training venue features state-of-the-art facilities, specialized footwear machines, shoe lasts, and spacious workspaces. Guest speakers and external experts will enhance the learning experience, providing a comprehensive understanding of the craft.
Registration for the program, facilitated through the Community Development Association (CDA) and the Nigerian Army Ordnance, comes with no participation fees. Successful participants will receive a Certificate of Participation, acknowledging their dedication and proficiency in leather craftsmanship upon completion.
- U.S. to scale up trade and investment in Africa, unveils new strategy for 2025
- Apply now: Get faster citizenship, business permits with FG’s new digital platform
- Apply now: Get up to ₦500,000 in non-repayable grant for your business
In a further commitment to industry integration, Arogundade announced plans to employ 50 participants from the program in a full-time capacity, effectively addressing the need for skilled hands in various sectors. This employment initiative underscores the joint commitment of all collaborators towards fostering skill development and empowering the youth.
The success of the program will be evaluated through a comprehensive approach, considering participant feedback, completion rates, post-training progress tracking, and employment or entrepreneurial outcomes. This holistic assessment aims to ensure the effectiveness and impact of the initiative on the participants and the community.
Moreover, the program extends its support beyond the training period by offering a 12-month mentorship program. This post-training mentorship is designed to further enhance the skills and capabilities of local talent, addressing ongoing employment challenges and nurturing the participants’ growth in their respective fields. The combined efforts of employment opportunities and mentorship exemplify a holistic approach to skill development and long-term empowerment.
Discover more from SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
