The Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC) officially launched the first phase of the Federal Ministry of Education's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (FME TVET) Programme today with an opening ceremony at its Group Headquarters in Abuja.

The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Initiative is a flagship programme of the Federal Ministry of Education designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills necessary for employment and entrepreneurship. Through a strategic partnership with APDC, a certified training centre, the initiative offers participants tuition-free training, monthly stipends, and start-up support in select, high-demand sectors.

The primary objectives of this crucial national programme are clear: to close Nigeria's skills gap, empower youths for self-reliance, create a robust pipeline of skilled workers for industries, and ultimately promote national development through vocational excellence.

The Managing Director of APDC, Dr. Chiji Ojukwu, represented by the Centre’s Director of Programmes, Policy, and Partnerships, Maaruf Yakub, delivered the welcome address. He commended the Minister of Education and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for organizing such a crucial and timely programme.

“Unemployment and insecurity have long plagued our country,” stated Yakub. “This programme is perfectly timed for our youth. The modern workforce demands practical skills for deployment, these high-demand skills you’ll gain will grant you immediate leverage to create your own enterprises or to contribute effectively to the workforce and earn a proper living.”

He emphasized APDC's commitment to the trainees: “Over the coming month, we will groom you and create an entire ecosystem to ensure your success. Our Centre exists solely to create opportunities, not just for you, but for the indirect beneficiaries of your skills: your family members, future employees, and your immediate communities that will feel your impact upon graduation. We trust that you will act as ambassadors and go on to achieve tremendous success.”

The event’s keynote address, themed “Driving Employability Through Innovation in TVET,” was delivered by Dr. Adam Maidodo, Head of the NBTE Liaison Office, representing the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Bugaje. Dr. Maidodo congratulated APDC on the successful launch, stating, “We applaud APDC for its continuous partnership in promoting technical skills training and look forward to the programme's success.” He urged the trainees to take the initiative seriously and become excellent ambassadors for the country.

The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories from past APDC trainees. Following this, Monday Eteh, The Centre's Agripreneur and Incubation Training Lead, delivered a speech outlining the essential guidelines and training expectations for the new cohort. The event concluded with the customary tour of the APDC facilities for all guests.

As participants embark on this transformative journey, The Centre maintains high expectations for the innovative solutions and entrepreneurial ventures that will emerge.

Stay tuned for regular updates on the programme's progress and impact.