The Federal Government has launched a nationwide programme to train one million youths under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative aimed at producing entrepreneurs rather than job seekers.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during an inspection visit to training centres in Abuja. He said about 250,000 participants are currently enrolled in the first phase across 2,600 centres nationwide.
Alausa noted that the TVET programme — a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda — focuses on 28 priority trades such as fashion design, GSM repair, plumbing, and modern farming. The curriculum is 90% practical, designed to equip trainees with employable and entrepreneurial skills.
Each participant receives a monthly stipend of ₦22,500, while training centres are funded directly to ensure transparency. Graduates will also get starter packs and access to single-digit loans from the Bank of Industry to start small businesses.
The Minister added that sustainability measures have been built into the scheme, including dedicating 5% of TETFund’s budget to TVET.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying the hands-on training is helping them gain valuable skills and confidence to start their own ventures.