Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has stated that a total of N3.4 billion has been earmarked for the Small and Medium Enterprise revolving scheme in the state.
Governor Radda disclosed this when he officially flagged off the Mechatronics Apprentice Support Program (MASP) organized by the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency, KASEDA, in collaboration with the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), held at the NYSC orientation camp.
He assured that the state administration would provide a monthly allowance to the aspiring mechatronics apprentices, as well as ensure they have access to quality education and practical experience that would prepare them for a meaningful career in the automotive industry.
According to him, the state government had set aside N58 million for the first phase of the training program.
He said the mechatronics apprentice training represents a significant milestone in its collective effort to empower youths, drive the economy, and foster innovations in the state.
The Katsina Governor maintained that the implementation of the training program proves the state government’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development in the state by prioritizing the participation of marginalized and vulnerable youths, including women and persons with disabilities.
Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s desire to support youths to unlock their potentials and build a brighter future for Katsina State.
He then appealed to all stakeholders, government agencies, the private sector, partners, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to join hands in championing the noble goal of ensuring the program’s success.
On his part, Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Aliyu Lawal Shargalle, appreciated Governor Radda, for supporting young men and women through various policies and programs.
Aliyu Lawal Shargalle also lauded the Katsina Governor for ensuring the selection process to identify the participants was made devoid of any political sentiment.
Earlier, the Director General of the state enterprise development agency, KASEDA, Hajia Aisha Aminu Malumfashi, said the program would run for two years and in two phases.
According to her, all 3,000 participants drawn from across the 34 local governments would undergo six months of training in the first phase after which they would be evaluated based on participation and performance.
This, she said, would qualify the best ones to advance to the second phase.
While assuring to organize more apprenticeship training programs in other fields, Hajia Aisha Malumfashi said all those who successfully graduated would be given startup packages.
