Amidst the growing challenges of unemployment and the dearth of skilled artisans, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has embarked on a nationwide screening initiative targeting artisans and prospective artisans across all senatorial districts.
This initiative, dubbed the “Skill Up Artisans” (SUPA) program, represents a strategic effort by the Federal Government to tackle unemployment and enhance certified skill acquisition nationwide.
For decades, Nigeria has grappled with the consequences of unemployment and a shortage of technically skilled workforce, leading to various social vices.
Unlike other nations, successive Nigerian governments have traditionally undervalued skill-based education in favor of a knowledge-centric approach, resulting in a surplus of graduates with theoretical knowledge but lacking practical skills.
The prevailing narrative suggests that a university degree alone no longer guarantees employment post-NYSC completion.
However, blending higher education with technical skill acquisition is increasingly seen as pivotal for individual and societal prosperity.
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Against this backdrop, observers argue that Nigerian youths must shatter the traditional belief that formal education is the sole path to success.
They point to the influx of foreign nationals, particularly from China and the Philippines, dominating construction sites and occupying positions that could be filled by skilled Nigerian artisans.
Furthermore, artisans from neighboring West African countries like Benin Republic and Togo are meeting the demand for skilled trades such as tillers, plumbers, and electricians, while indigenous artisans remain underutilized.
Recognizing the urgent need to harness Nigeria’s artisanal potential and capitalize on global opportunities, the Federal Government, through the ITF, has initiated the SUPA program.
This program, spearheaded by the ITF under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, aims to revolutionize artisanal skills and bolster the nation’s economy through skilled labor exports.
During the 2023 Annual Merit Award Ceremony of the ITF in Jos, Plateau State, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, the Director-General of ITF, elaborated on the SUPA concept.
He outlined SUPA as a transformative endeavor geared towards upskilling, licensing, and empowering five million Nigerian artisans annually. This comprehensive approach involves data collation, training, certification, and licensing to enhance job prospects both locally and internationally.
Dr. Ogun emphasized that the SUPA program is structured into five categories catering to artisans, aspiring artisans, and training centers. These categories encompass basic and advanced training, apprenticeship, certification, and continuous learning, aligning with global standards to elevate Nigeria’s artisanal sector.
Ultimately, SUPA embodies the government’s commitment to economic development, improved living standards, and national progress. By fostering skilled artisanal workforce, the program aims to drive industrial growth, meet domestic industry demands, and establish a sustainable platform for labor export, thus charting a path towards a brighter future for Nigeria.
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