The Edo State Government, in partnership with Young Africa, is set to begin training young people in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills starting in March 2026, as part of efforts to equip youths with practical skills that can help them secure jobs or start their own businesses.
The programme will begin with 200 young people who will be trained in selected trades during the first phase of the initiative. The training will take place at Benin Technical College in Ugbowo, Benin City, and is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to promote skills acquisition and youth empowerment in the state.
The collaboration was highlighted during a strategic meeting between the Edo State Board for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (BTVET) and representatives of Young Africa at the Education Hub in Iyaro, Benin City.
Executive Chairman of the Board, Barr. (Mrs.) Onomen Briggs, said the partnership is part of the state government’s broader strategy to expand access to quality technical education and ensure that training programmes match industry needs.
“This collaboration is focused on expanding access to quality skills training, improving youth employability and ensuring that training programmes are aligned with industry demands,” she said.
Briggs also emphasized that the state government is committed to creating an enabling environment that will allow such partnerships to succeed and produce real economic opportunities for young people.
“The Edo State Government remains committed to fostering productive partnerships that will reposition technical education as a viable pathway to economic empowerment,” she added.
According to the organisers, the training initiative is designed to provide participants with practical technical competencies that can support self-reliance and employment.
Members of the Young Africa delegation, including Project Coordinator Ms. Adedotun Esan and Grants Coordinator Mr. Wellington Muchechetere, presented the organisation’s implementation framework and confirmed their readiness to work closely with the Board to deliver the programme.
They noted that the March 2026 launch will mark the first phase of the training, with the goal of equipping Edo youths with skills that are relevant to today’s job market and entrepreneurial opportunities.
