Skills development, our priority – Katsina gov

The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda on Tuesday said his administration will prioritise youth skill development as it remained the only path to peaceful coexistence.

He made this known in his message to mark the 2024 World Youth Skills Day with the theme “Youth Skills for Peace and Development.”

The United Nations General Assembly designated July 15, as World Youth Skills Day to highlight the crucial role of youth skills in driving peace and sustainable development.

Radda’s message was contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed.

“Our youth are not just the future; they are the present. We’ve revitalized the Katsina Industrial Development Centre, providing a conducive environment for learning and innovation. This upgrade, complete with new access roads, opens doors for our young people to acquire vital skills.

“The resuscitation of the Katsina Youth Craft Village is more than preserving our heritage. It’s about equipping our youth with skills that can sustain livelihoods and promote our rich culture.

“In partnership with the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association, 3,000 young mechanic apprentices are designed to undergo training. This initiative ensures our youth are prepared for the evolving automotive industry, fostering both employment and entrepreneurship”, Radda stated.

The Governor also emphasised women’s empowerment, noting that “we recognise that peace and development require the participation of all. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan Atlantic University to train 10,000 women across all local government areas in Katsina state. These women are now better equipped to contribute to our state’s economy and stability.

“On this World Youth Skills Day, we renew our dedication to nurturing a skilled, peaceful, and productive youth population. Our initiatives are not just about job creation; they’re about building a resilient, harmonious Katsina State.”