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INDUSTRIAL Training Fund (ITF) says it has trained 150 youths on hair dressing, aluminum fabrication, solar power installation and wig cap making in Delta.

Director-General of ITF, Mr Joseph Ari, said this in Asaba on Friday at the graduation and distribution of starter-packs to the beneficiaries of the training.

Ari, represented by Mrs Ugochinyere Onyeka, ITF Area Manager, Warri office, said that some of the beneficiaries were also trained on tiling and interlocking, hair dressing and aluminium fabrication.

He said the beneficiaries were trained for three months, adding that the programme was conducted under ITF’s 2022 National Industrial Skills Development Programmes.

“ITF has, over the years, developed numerous skills intervention programmes to promote entrepreneurship, employability, job and wealth creation to reduce youth’s restiveness”, he said.

The director-general further said that the ITF programmes were meant to promote diversification of the nation’s economy, in line with the Federal Government’s policy.

“The programmes are specifically designed to equip beneficiaries with the necessary skills and attitude to thrive as employees and/or entrepreneurs,” he said.

Ari also said that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration had endeavoured to create jobs that would engage Nigerians in meaningful economic ventures.

He, however, urged non-governmental organisations, faith-based organisations, politicians and other stakeholders to collaborate with the agency in its efforts at training youths across the country.

“What the federal government is doing is impressive, in view of the magnitude of the unemployment confronting the nation. In order to achieve the desired impact, all hands must be on deck,” he said.

In his remarks, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa thanked the federal government for its commitment to improving the quality of lives of citizens by creating an enabling environment for the youth.

Okowa, represented by the Executive Secretary, Delta State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Mr Smart Ikem, urged the beneficiaries to put the starter-packs into proper use for maximum benefit.

On behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Chijioke Ossai, thanked the organisation for the training and provision of the starter-packs.

Ossai said that as a trainee, he had received a contract to install solar power in two homes, adding, ”I’m hopeful that by the end of the month, I will commence the installation.” (NAN)

E.C

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