Katsina Empowers 1,169 Youths with Skills, Starter Packs to Tackle Unemployment
Hussaini Ibrahim 
KATSINA, Nigeria – Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has empowered 1,169 young people with vocational skills and starter packs, in a move aimed at tackling unemployment and boosting economic productivity in the state.
The beneficiaries graduated from a one-year mechatronics apprenticeship programme organised by the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency in partnership with the National Automobile Technicians Association.
The graduation ceremony, held at Government House in Katsina on Monday, marked a key milestone in the state’s youth empowerment strategy.
Radda described the initiative as a deliberate effort to equip young people with practical, market-relevant skills. “We are celebrating resilience, determination and the commitment of our youths to self-improvement and enterprise,” he said.
He reiterated that youth unemployment remains a major challenge, stressing that skills development offers a sustainable solution. “The most effective way to address unemployment is to empower our youth with practical skills that translate into real economic opportunities,” the governor added.
Highlighting the relevance of the programme, he noted that mechatronics aligns with evolving global trends in the automotive sector, combining mechanical systems with electronics and diagnostics.
Director-General of KASEDA, Babangida Ruma, said the training provided hands-on experience, mentorship, and industry exposure, enabling participants to become self-reliant.
Automotive expert Jelani Aliyu urged graduates to remain disciplined and committed. “With integrity and hard work, you can build businesses and create opportunities for others,” he said.
The state government said the starter packs would enable beneficiaries to begin work immediately, positioning them as job creators rather than job seekers.
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Korede Abdullah 
Koko Maxwella