ITF screens 225,000 artisans nationwide for skills acquisition

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has initiated the nationwide screening of 225,000 practicing artisans as part of its Skill Up Artisans (SUPA) program. This Federal Government initiative is designed to enhance the skills of Nigerian tradesmen, making them globally competitive and providing them with internationally recognized certification and improved access to employment and business opportunities. The screening exercise is being conducted simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Mrs. Nancy Ekong, Director of the ITF’s Technical and Vocational Skills Training Department, monitored the screening in Plateau State. She clarified that SUPA is specifically for individuals already engaged in a trade, not a general empowerment scheme. "This programme is not an empowerment programme. It is meant for practising artisans who already have skills. Whether you are a tailor, plumber, electrician or in any other trade, we are helping you improve your competence and become globally competitive," Ekong stated.

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This programme is not an empowerment programme. It is meant for practising artisans who already have skills. Whether you are a tailor, plumber, electrician or in any other trade, we are helping you improve your competence and become globally competitive.

The program aims to address gaps in professionalism and service delivery among Nigerian artisans, who often possess strong technical abilities. "Our goal is to improve not only their technical competence but also their attitude to work and professionalism so they can compete favourably with artisans anywhere in the world," Ekong added. The three-and-a-half-month training will be provided free of charge, with the ITF covering costs for master trainers and providing transportation stipends to beneficiaries.

Upon completion, successful artisans will receive internationally recognized certification, boosting their employability both domestically and abroad. Ekong outlined three exit pathways for participants: business incubation with financial and technical support, linkage with employers, or opportunities to work outside Nigeria, where skilled artisans are in high demand. The pilot phase of the program, conducted in Abuja, was described as a success, with beneficiaries completing technical and soft skills training and undergoing certification examinations. This exercise is set to extend to other states before business incubation commences.

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Our goal is to improve not only their technical competence but also their attitude to work and professionalism so they can compete favourably with artisans anywhere in the world.