U.S. Consulate Partners to Empower 120 Nigerian Technicians for Economic Growth

The U.S. Consulate General Lagos has collaborated with the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy to launch the Emerging Technicians Conference, an initiative aimed at equipping young Nigerian technicians with the skills necessary to succeed in their trades and build sustainable businesses. The program focuses on a diverse group of 120 technicians from fields such as plumbing, electrical work, automobile mechanics, HVAC, solar systems design, and data science.

This six-month mentorship program was designed to foster entrepreneurial skills, provide insights into in-demand technical fields, and emphasize the importance of continuous skills development. The conference also highlighted the role of innovation in driving career success and expanding economic opportunities. Participants were given tools to thrive in an ever-changing job market, preparing them for future success in their respective industries.

In her opening remarks at the American Corner Ikeja, Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg emphasized the U.S. Mission’s long-standing commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in Nigeria. She pointed out that by focusing on economic resilience through technical training, young people could be empowered to create jobs, spur innovation, and drive trade and investment between Nigeria and the U.S.

Omowale Ogunrinde, Executive Director of the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, also spoke about the importance of aligning technical workforce training with the rapid pace of technological change. He emphasized that investing in Nigeria’s youth and fostering local talent in technical fields would accelerate innovation and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

SOURCE: THIS DAY