The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a strategic partnership with Germany aimed at establishing a groundbreaking dual vocational training program. This initiative is designed to equip Nigerian youth with vital skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.
During a recent meeting held in Abuja, Minister of Youth Development Mr. Ayodele Olawande provided insights into this collaboration while engaging with a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, led by Dr. Matthias Leder.
Minister Olawande stated, “We are committed to fostering an environment where young people can flourish and significantly contribute to our nation’s progress.”
He outlined the ministry’s ambitious objective of training seven million youths in critical skill areas over the next two years, with plans to implement an intensive three-day skills program across fifty revitalized Youth Centres.
This initiative will culminate in a major event designed to boost employability and prepare participants for an increasingly competitive labor market.
Dr. Leder emphasized the transformative potential of the dual vocational training system, highlighting the reciprocal advantages it presents for both Nigeria and Germany.
He pointed out that Nigerian youths who participate in the program would have the opportunity to receive free vocational training in Germany, and those who successfully complete their exams would be offered employment positions within participating companies.
In addition, former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, underscored the significance of this initiative for fostering economic growth, trade, and investment relations between Nigeria and Germany.
He remarked that this partnership builds upon a relationship initiated in 2005 and strengthened with the establishment of the Dual Vocational Education Project in 2012.
