NBTE, Kaduna Government Launch Uba Sani Skills Programme to Train 200 Vulnerable Women for Entrepreneurship

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), in partnership with the Kaduna State Government, has officially launched the Uba Sani Skills Ambassadors (USSA) Programme, an initiative designed to equip 200 vulnerable women with practical vocational skills, nationally recognized certification, and entrepreneurship support.

The programme was inaugurated with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration between NBTE and the Kaduna State Government to promote economic empowerment through technical and vocational education.

Speaking during the launch, the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris M. Bugaje, disclosed that although the programme was initially planned to last six months, it has been restructured into an intensive three-month training to accommodate more beneficiaries within the same timeframe.

According to him, the first batch of 100 women will immediately begin the training, while another 100 beneficiaries will be enrolled after the completion of the first phase, bringing the total number of participants to 200.

Prof. Bugaje explained that beneficiaries who successfully complete the programme will receive NBTE competence-based certificates alongside starter packs to help them establish their own businesses and become financially independent.

He stressed the importance of investing in women's education and skills development, describing women as critical drivers of national growth and sustainable development.

The NBTE Executive Secretary urged participants to remain committed throughout the training, noting that the programme is aimed at producing entrepreneurs and employers of labour rather than job seekers.

He also encouraged the beneficiaries to value the certificates they would earn upon completion, emphasizing that NBTE's competence-based certification is widely recognized across Nigeria and can enhance employment and business opportunities.

Prof. Bugaje commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for prioritizing youth and women empowerment through technical and vocational education. He described the initiative as a reflection of the governor's commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods, reducing poverty, and promoting economic inclusion.

As the programme's assessment and certification body, NBTE will ensure that all participants undergo standardized training and competency-based assessments in line with national occupational standards before receiving their certificates.

The Uba Sani Skills Ambassadors Programme is expected to improve the economic prospects