Jigawa State has taken a bold step toward youth empowerment and economic development with the official launch of a state-of-the-art Technical and Vocational Training Center in Garki, located in Garki Local Government Area.
This new center, designated as a Center of Excellence, is a key project under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar Namadi and is designed to equip young people with practical skills for the modern workforce.
During the commissioning ceremony, Governor Namadi described the project as a landmark achievement for the state’s education sector. According to him, the center represents a new beginning in the effort to raise educational standards and boost job readiness among the youth in Jigawa.
The foundation for the center was laid by the previous administration, which initially constructed the institution at a cost of almost ₦635 million. However, upon taking office, Governor Namadi’s administration restructured and expanded the facility. Major renovations were carried out, including the addition of new hostels and general improvements to existing infrastructure. This phase alone cost nearly ₦700 million.
To raise the bar in technical education, the state government has committed to further developments. Governor Namadi announced the approval of a ₦600 million contract for the construction of a modern workshop and an additional ₦3.1 billion to be spent on technical and vocational training equipment. These investments aim to create an environment that supports hands-on learning and prepares students for in-demand careers.
The newly upgraded training center has already started admitting its first batch of students. Over 200 students—both male and female—were selected through a rigorous examination and interview process conducted across the 27 local government areas in the state. According to the Governor, eight top-performing students were chosen from each area, ensuring equal representation and access.
The institution is kicking off with three core programs: Welding and Fabrication, Building Technology, and Catering Services. These courses were carefully selected to match the growing demand for skilled workers in the job market. The Governor emphasized that more programs will be added as additional workshops and equipment become available.
This move is part of Jigawa State’s broader plan to create opportunities through skill acquisition and practical education. The long-term vision includes building a pipeline of trained individuals who will continue their studies at the Babura Higher Institution for Vocational and Technical Training. This senior-level institution will also receive significant investment—over ₦20 billion—to ensure world-class facilities and training equipment.
Governor Namadi highlighted that similar centers are being planned across the state. These will focus on various trades such as painting, scaffolding, fabrication, and other key technical areas. By expanding access to skill-based education, the state aims to reduce unemployment and prepare its youth for careers in industries like construction, hospitality, and engineering.
This initiative directly supports high-priority goals such as youth empowerment, job creation, and technical skill development. It also aligns with national objectives to reduce reliance on white-collar jobs and promote entrepreneurship. By focusing on vocational training, Jigawa State is creating a future where young people have the tools they need to succeed—whether through employment or starting their own businesses.
The Governor reassured the public that the administration is fully committed to making education and skills training accessible to all students in Jigawa. He stressed the importance of building a strong foundation for the next generation and offering them a real chance to pursue fulfilling careers.
The commissioning event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmed, the Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, and other notable figures. Their presence underscored the significance of the project and the broad support it has gained both within and outside the state.
With this launch, Jigawa joins other forward-thinking states investing in technical and vocational education as a pathway to long-term economic growth and stability.