Plateau State Government has commenced a month-long ICT and vocational training programme for 250 youths across its 17 local government areas, in a renewed effort to curb unemployment and promote self-reliance among young people.
The initiative, tagged the Plateau Youths Employment and Skills Acquisition (PLAYESA) programme, kicked off at the National Youth Centre, Shere Hills, Jos. It is being implemented by the Plateau State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
It aims to equip participants with practical skills in three strategic areas: fashion design, leatherworks (including shoemaking and bag production), and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Speaking during the official flag-off, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Achoms, said the programme is in line with Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s broader agenda to empower the youth through education, practical skills, and exposure to real economic opportunities.
“The training is for young people to acquire new skills, and for those who already have skills, to improve their capacity. His Excellency places a lot of value on youth empowerment. That is why we brought them here—to expose them to opportunities that can lead to wealth creation,” the Commissioner stated.
Hon. Achoms explained that 150 participants are currently enrolled in the first phase of the training, while the remaining 100 will begin the second phase from September 1 to September 30. He clarified that selection was based on residency within Plateau State, not indigene status, to ensure inclusivity.
He also revealed that the Ministry has submitted a ₦2 billion supplementary budget proposal to the Plateau State House of Assembly to scale up youth empowerment efforts, particularly in ICT and agribusiness.
“We want Plateau State to become an ICT hub. Already, the Joseph Gomwalk House has been donated by the Governor to serve as an ICT centre. The Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy has also committed to laying 30km of fibre optic cables across the state. With this, we believe our youths will be better positioned to compete nationally and globally,” he added.
The Commissioner further disclosed that participants would receive start-up tools upon completion of the training. These include HP Core i5 laptops, industrial sewing machines, and leather-crafting equipment. Additionally, the state government is providing feeding, health support, and accommodation to enhance the learning experience.
On her part, the Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Deborah Simon Pitmang, emphasized that the programme is solely focused on skill acquisition and not leadership training. She cautioned participants against unseriousness, noting that defaulters may be disqualified.
“This programme is called Skills for Wealth. It’s not about collecting machines and selling them to buy smartphones. The intention is to build your capacity and equip you to create wealth,” she emphasized.
Pitmang added that the Ministry had ensured the presence of qualified trainers, health professionals, and recreational activities to support the wellbeing of participants. She also explained that the three skill areas were carefully selected to ensure focused delivery and measurable outcomes.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the opportunity. Jonathan Lekshak, a participant in the ICT stream, described the initiative as both timely and relevant.
“This is a very good initiative. The world is going digital, and this training gives us a solid foundation. I plan to apply what I learn here, deepen my knowledge, and build something meaningful for myself,” he said, commending the state government for its youth-focused policies.
Bigwan Peret Benshak and Aisha Isa Abubakar, participants in the leatherworks and fashion design categories respectively, shared similar views. Aisha expressed her desire to use the skills gained to support her family, while Bigwan said he hopes to pass on what he learns to others.
They both advised fellow trainees to take the opportunity seriously and resist the temptation to sell their start-up kits. “Don’t misuse the tools,” they warned. “Selling them for quick money defeats the purpose of the programme.”
With this initiative, the Plateau State Government is reaffirming its commitment to youth development, aiming to build a generation of skilled, self-reliant, and entrepreneurial citizens across the state.
