FCT Education Dept Rolls Out Free Holiday Skills Training to Fight Unemployment By Raymond Enoch

In a dynamic push to curb unemployment and spark economic independence, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat has kicked off a free, one-week holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training. The program, targeting women, youth, and underserved residents, is designed to equip participants with practical skills and business acumen to thrive in today’s economy.

The initiative—powered by the FCT Department of Mass Education in partnership with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS)—offers hands-on training in producing everyday essentials like laundry soap, bleach, snacks, disinfectants, and more. Beyond technical know-how, attendees will learn vital business tools such as bookkeeping, financial management, branding, and social media marketing.

At the launch event, FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Wike-led FCT Administration. “Empowerment through skills is the backbone of self-reliance,” he said. “We are building resilient communities by turning potential into productivity.”

Dr. Favour Edem-Nse, Director of the FCT Department of Mass Education, emphasized the program’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, especially in reducing out-of-school numbers and boosting youth and women’s economic participation. “We’re not just training people—we’re transforming lives,” she stated.

The training has already drawn enthusiastic interest from residents, partners, and educators alike. Participants will receive post-training support to help them transition their new skills into sustainable businesses.

As one young participant put it: “I came to learn how to make soap. I’m leaving with a new vision for my future.”