KATSINA — Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has empowered 1,169 youths in Katsina State with vocational skills and starter packs under the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA) and National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme.
The beneficiaries were presented with the tools at a graduation ceremony held at the People’s Square, Government House, Katsina, marking the completion of a one-year intensive training programme.
Radda described the initiative as part of efforts to tackle youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship, urging the graduates to utilise the opportunity to become self-reliant and job creators.
“The most effective way to address unemployment is to empower our youth with practical skills that can translate into real economic opportunities,” the governor said.
He explained that the programme focuses on mechatronics, a field that combines mechanical and electronic systems, in line with global trends in the automobile industry.
The governor noted that the provision of starter packs was aimed at bridging the gap between training and employment, enabling beneficiaries to immediately start businesses and contribute to economic development.
“These are not just tools; they are instruments of opportunity and productivity,” he added, while urging the youths to remain disciplined and committed to excellence.
Director-General of KASEDA, Babangida Ruma, described the graduation as a major milestone in the state’s human capital development drive, noting that the programme equips participants with practical, market-relevant skills through hands-on training and mentorship.
Chairman of the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Abbati, said the initiative has contributed to reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance among youths.
Jelani Aliyu
Guest speaker, Jelani Aliyu, urged the graduates to embrace discipline, innovation, and continuous learning, stressing that mastery requires patience and consistency.
He said the skills acquired would enable them to create opportunities for themselves and others if applied with dedication and integrity.
The event was attended by members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, local government chairmen, and other stakeholders.
