By Esther Olaoluwa |
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s technical workforce through its Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) programme, an initiative aimed at formalising the informal sector, improving artisans’ competencies and addressing shortages in skilled manpower.
Under the leadership of the Director-General of the ITF, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, the programme focuses on retooling, certifying and licensing artisans to meet nationally and internationally recognised standards while enhancing their competitiveness in the labour market.
The initiative marks a shift in the agency’s approach from conventional vocational training to broader human capital development through the adoption of modern training methods, digital tools and competency-based certification.
According to the ITF, the SUPA programme seeks to address longstanding concerns about unqualified practitioners by equipping artisans across different trades, including plumbing, electrical installation, tailoring and automobile repairs, with industry-relevant skills and recognised certifications.
Programme Combines Skills Training with Enterprise Support
Beyond technical training, the Fund said the programme incorporates business development support to improve the sustainability of small enterprises established by beneficiaries.
According to the agency, artisans who complete the programme receive entrepreneurship training under the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) curriculum, alongside mentorship, business development support and access to startup equipment designed to help participants establish or expand their businesses.
The ITF also disclosed that investments have been made to support selected vocational sectors, including tailoring and automotive repairs, as part of efforts to encourage more young Nigerians to pursue technical careers.
ITF Promotes Technical Skills as Pathway to Employment
The agency said it has continued to promote vocational education through nationwide sensitisation campaigns, state-level engagements and partnerships with trade associations to encourage greater participation in skills development programmes.
Speaking during one of the engagements, Ogun said the agency is working to reposition technical and vocational skills as viable career pathways capable of supporting industrial growth and improving employment opportunities.
According to him, skilled trades should be recognised as professional occupations with the potential to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda.
The ITF said it will continue implementing programmes that strengthen workforce development, promote entrepreneurship and improve the quality of technical skills available to support the country’s economic growth.
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