Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu, has launched its Skills and Entrepreneurship Development Center (SEDC). The centre aims to equip young Nigerians with high-demand skills for self-reliance and economic growth.
The SEDC offers practical training in areas such as bakery and confectionery, block moulding and bricklaying, cosmetology, media and photography, solar and CCTV installation, tailoring and textile, and welding and fabrication. These skills are carefully selected to meet local and global market demands, encouraging entrepreneurship and reducing youth unemployment.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, said, “This initiative supports Governor Soludo’s vision of youth empowerment and we are ready to partner with the Polytechnic to expand these training opportunities.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, was represented by the Director of Tertiary Education, Mrs. Oyibo Alor, who officially opened the Cosmetology Skills Centre. She emphasized the importance of making full use of the equipment, stating, “Proper and productive use of all tools provided will ensure the success of this centre.”
Engr. Dr. Ngozi Margaret Okelekwe, the South-East Zonal Director of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), noted, “The centre must operate on a productive and profit-oriented basis for sustainability. We also expect qualified Quality Assurance Assessors to ensure full compliance with the National Skills Qualification standards.”
Describing the development as historic, Polytechnic lecturer Engr. Ngozi Okoye said, “The management established the SEDC to help students transition from classroom knowledge to real-life applications, giving them a competitive edge in today’s job market.”
The centre is expected to improve employability, reduce poverty, and increase access to business opportunities for Nigerian youths.