FG Trains 100 Youths in Hospitality Skills to Combat Unemployment

In a significant move to combat unemployment and bridge critical skills gaps, the Federal Government, in partnership with the Masterminds Catering and Culinary Institute Academy, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the World Bank, has successfully trained and empowered 100 young Nigerians. This six-month intensive program, under the Innovation, Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) initiative, focused on culinary and hospitality skills, combining classroom learning with practical industry experience.

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I discovered there was a major skills gap in the industry, and that was affecting many entrepreneurs. That is why we decided to focus on bridging that gap.

The program's CEO, Khadijat Fashina, highlighted the academy's mission to address a noted shortage of skilled professionals in the hospitality and catering sector, which has impacted many entrepreneurs. The training structure was meticulously designed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and real-world exposure, positioning them for entrepreneurship or enhanced employability.

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The world is moving beyond traditional nine-to-five jobs. Skills and talent now matter a lot, and that is why the government is investing in programmes like this to empower young people.

Ayomide Adeagbo, Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, underscored the initiative's alignment with a global shift towards skills-driven employment. He emphasized the government's commitment to investing in programs that empower youth, noting that this initiative is part of broader efforts to equip Nigerians with practical skills across various sectors. Crucially, mechanisms are in place to support beneficiaries post-training, including access to funding through initiatives like the Creative Economy Development Fund, ensuring a sustainable impact.

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We are not just training people and leaving them. There are follow-up plans, including access to funding through initiatives like the Creative Economy Development Fund, which will help beneficiaries start and grow their businesses.

This program exemplifies Nigeria's proactive approach to harnessing the potential of its youth. While international coverage might focus on the numbers, the local perspective emphasizes the tangible impact on individual lives and the broader economy. The focus on skills-based training, coupled with policy support and funding access, demonstrates a strategic investment in the nation's future, fostering self-reliance and economic growth from the grassroots up. The inclusion of standardized, competency-based certification under the National Skills Qualification Framework ensures that these skills are recognized and valued, both domestically and potentially internationally.

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Policy and funding are the foundation for growth. We have created both to ensure that young Nigerians can thrive in the creative and skills economy.