Plateau State Government Launches ICT and Vocational Training Program for 250 Youths

Strategic Insights -

The Plateau State Government has initiated a month-long ICT and vocational training program, known as the Plateau Youths Employment and Skills Acquisition (PLAYESA) program, to equip 250 youths with practical skills in fashion design, leatherworks, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The program aims to curb unemployment and promote self-reliance among young people in the state's 17 local government areas. The initiative is being implemented by the Plateau State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The PLAYESA program will train 250 youths in three strategic areas: fashion design, leatherworks (including shoemaking and bag production), and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
  • 150 participants are currently enrolled in the first phase of the training, while the remaining 100 will begin the second phase from September 1 to September 30.
  • The selection process was based on residency within Plateau State, not indigene status, to ensure inclusivity.
  • The Ministry has submitted a ₦2 billion supplementary budget proposal to the Plateau State House of Assembly to scale up youth empowerment efforts, particularly in ICT and agribusiness.
  • Participants will receive start-up tools upon completion of the training, including HP Core i5 laptops, industrial sewing machines, and leather-crafting equipment.
  • The state government is providing feeding, health support, and accommodation to enhance the learning experience.
  • The program is focused on skill acquisition and not leadership training, with a strict warning against defaulters who may be disqualified.

Statistics:

  • 250 youths will participate in the PLAYESA program.
  • 150 participants are currently enrolled in the first phase of the training, while 100 will begin the second phase from September 1 to September 30.
  • ₦2 billion supplementary budget proposal has been submitted to the Plateau State House of Assembly for youth empowerment efforts.
  • 30km of fibre optic cables will be laid across the state to establish Plateau State as an ICT hub.

Sources:

  • Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Achoms
  • Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang
  • Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Deborah Simon Pitmang
  • The Plateau State Government Gazette, 2023 (Source: Os gaemein J m t h ± nghiogens Reference: (Acch lu17 615 r64o s Cross-references; ahends DJ Dir671 bmiCert.nn bolt))