U.S. Consulate sponsors 100 youths for vocational, entrepreneurial training

By Kazeem Akande

The United States Diplomatic Mission has sponsored 100 youths in Lagos for vocational and entrepreneurial training, aimed at boosting self-reliance.

U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Will Stevens, on Thursday in Lagos, commended the youths for their resilience and determination during the training, emphasising the importance of entrepreneurial skills in the green economy job market.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the graduands were offered certificates after three months of training at the Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) Vocational, Technical and Entrepreneurship Training Institute, Agege.

The theme of the event is: “Life Entrepreneurship Skills for Green Economy Job”.

“I know Nigerian citizens are focused, hardworking and unwilling to give up under any circumstances.

“It’s very rear to see a Nigerian with one job. They work so hard with entrepreneurial skills with credible potential.

“That’s why the U.S. Consulate is sponsoring the youths in solar energy installations and fashion designers,” Steven said.

According to him, the training focuses on helping and equipping the youth with the green economy.

The U.S. Consul General added that vocations and skill acquisitions were what the people needed to be able to succeed in the 21st century.

The most amazing thing in this programme is the incredible entrepreneurial experience of the students with their dedications in promoting themselves and their community.

“At the same time, seeing that all of them have been gainfully employed, which mean ‘graduating on Friday and starting a job on Monday’ that’s exactly why we are so proud as a consulate to support such programme.

“We are also determined to tackle the challenges facing Nigerians and showcase our commitments to partnering with Nigeria,” he added.

Miss Oluwabusolami Yusuf, in her remarks, thanked the U.S. Consulate for sponsoring the vocational training.

“This is a great opportunity giving to us to be empowered and trained in various entrepreneurial skills.

“I am sure the programme will go a long way in making the youth self-reliant in our various fields of training,” she said.

Mr Muhammed Ibrahim, who was trained in solar energy installations, thanked the consul for helping the grassroots youth to benefit in such quality training.

“I really appreciate our sponsor and the institution involved.

“In fact, I really gained a lot in the training because presently, I have submitted three proposals to different clients where I am expecting a positive response from them. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa