The Benue State Government has launched the inaugural phase of its International Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment Programme to equip young people with globally relevant skills.
The programme is currently underway at the Republican Institute for Vocational Studies (RIPO) in Belarus, where selected participants have commenced intensive artisanal training.
The initiative, championed by Governor Hyacinth Alia, is being implemented in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment.
The statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, on Wednesday, said the training combined classroom instruction with hands-on practical experience, focusing on infrastructural development and a broad spectrum of vocational disciplines.
According to the statement, the programme was designed to equip participants with modern digital and technical skills, preparing them to compete effectively in an increasingly dynamic global labour market.
“It should be noted that the programme represents a strategic investment in human capital development, with a strong emphasis on certification and industry relevance”
Governor Alia has further indicated plans to expand the initiative to include the agricultural and automotive sectors, underscoring his administration’s commitment to sustainable youth empowerment and international collaboration.
“The Benue delegation, led by the Director General of the Bureau of Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, Benita Shuluwa, was formally received by officials of the Republican Institute for Vocational Studies (RIPO), with training activities commencing immediately”
The statement added, “Both the Benue State Government and RIPO have expressed optimism about strengthening their partnership, with discussions already underway to extend the programme across multiple Centres of Excellence within the institute.
The development is expected to open new pathways for skills acquisition, innovation, and global exposure for youths in Benue State,” Kula said.
