The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Environment, has approved a four-month intensive training programme in Mechatronics Engineering for 100 Ogoni youths, to be implemented through the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) at the University of Port Harcourt Offshore Technology Institute.
The programme was flagged off at the University of Port Harcourt, where the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari Georgewill, said the initiative is designed to equip young people with advanced technical skills.
Professor Georgewill commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as a forward-looking and transformative intervention, noting that the training reflects a deliberate investment in the future of Ogoni youths.
According to him, the programme positions beneficiaries for relevance in the fast-evolving global technology space by focusing on Mechatronics, a discipline that integrates mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering.
He explained that Mechatronics plays a critical role in modern manufacturing, automation and engineering solutions, and urged the selected youths to approach the training with discipline, commitment and intellectual curiosity.
“The skills you will acquire here are globally competitive and can open doors to opportunities if you remain focused,” Georgewill said.
The Vice-Chancellor also praised the HYPREP Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibari Zabbey, for diligently implementing the project in line with the President’s Renewed Hope vision.
In his keynote address, the HYPREP Project Coordinator, Professor Zabbey, represented by the Director of Technical Services, Professor Damian Aguiyi, expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the programme.
He described the training as the fulfilment of a long-standing goal to equip Ogoni youths with high-end and marketable technical skills.
Professor Zabbey explained that the University of Port Harcourt was selected to deliver the programme to combine strong academic foundations with practical, industry-driven training.
He noted that the world is advancing rapidly in innovation, technology, digital transformation and leadership, adding that HYPREP is committed to ensuring that Ogoni youths are not left behind.
“The selection of a competent contractor and a reputable academic institution shows our resolve to deliver quality and sustainable outcomes,” he said.
The Managing Director of Competent Samco Technical Nigeria Limited, Mr Samuel Makozi, outlined the structure of the training, stating that participants would be exposed to mechanical, electrical and electronic components of Mechatronics.
According to him, the programme will combine classroom lectures with hands-on practical sessions to ensure participants gain theoretical knowledge and competence.
Makozi added that the training would commence at the Offshore Technology Institute before participants proceed to the Trans-Amadi Industrial Area for industrial-based practical experience.
In a goodwill message, His Royal Highness, Mene Kardilo Kabari, appreciated HYPREP for providing Ogoni youths with access to world-class instructors and modern facilities.
He urged the trainees to remain focused and committed, noting that the programme has the potential to transform their lives and communities.
The Mechatronics training programme aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment, skills acquisition and sustainable development.
Through HYPREP, the initiative is expected to enhance employability, promote self-reliance among Ogoni youths and support socio-economic development.
Read also: Apply: BYY Innovations Internship Program
