The Lagos State Government has graduated 500 young people from its Technical, Vocational and Educational Training (TVET) programme as part of efforts to strengthen youth empowerment and reduce unemployment across the state.
The training, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, culminated in a graduation ceremony held at the Sam Shonibare Auditorium in Surulere.
The six-week programme focused on equipping participants with practical and entrepreneurial skills capable of generating sustainable income and promoting self-reliance.
Beneficiaries received training in five major vocational areas, including computer and phone repairs, graphic design, photography and videography, cosmetology, and mixology.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the initiative as part of the government’s broader strategy to prepare young people for emerging economic opportunities through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship.
According to him, the programme was designed not only to provide technical knowledge but also to position participants for economic independence and long-term career growth.
He noted that industry professionals and experienced facilitators were engaged throughout the training to ensure participants gained practical exposure relevant to current market demands.
Ajigbotafe urged the graduands to utilise the knowledge acquired during the programme to create businesses, generate employment opportunities, and contribute positively to their communities.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Lolade Aina, encouraged participants to embrace entrepreneurship rather than depend solely on white-collar employment opportunities.
She disclosed that start-up kits were distributed to beneficiaries to support them in launching their businesses immediately after the training.
Aina further revealed that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund would continue to provide support for beneficiaries seeking access to business financing and enterprise development opportunities.
She explained that interested participants could access a ₦250,000 start-up loan scheme introduced to assist small business owners and young entrepreneurs.
According to her, applicants would be required to provide their LASSRA identification number, training certificate, Tax Identification Number, and valid means of identification to qualify for the facility.
The event also featured certificate presentations, project exhibitions, and goodwill messages from stakeholders and development partners who participated in the programme.
The TVET initiative forms part of the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts to promote vocational education, youth empowerment, and economic inclusion through practical skills development programmes.
