Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has trained 15 youths in Information Communication Technology (ICT), administrative management, and other vocational skills. President of ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, stated this during the 2nd graduation ceremony for the one-year competency-based training in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the ACCI president, represented by his 1st Deputy President, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, emphasized the aim to equip the youths with essential skills needed to excel in their respective fields. The trainees participated in both the Office Administration (OA) and Technical Facility Operations and Maintenance (TFOM) Competency-Based Dual Vocational Training Programmes.
Obegolu highlighted the event as the culmination of extensive dedication and hard work, with students completing industry-focused training programmes. He indicated that this training marks the second phase of the competency-based programmes, showcasing the effectiveness of collaboration and commitment to excellence in vocational training.
He elaborated that these programmes immerse trainees in real-world scenarios, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. The Office Administration programme follows the Dual Vocational Training (DVT) model, integrating workplace experience with academic instruction, leading to a level four certification under the National Skills Qualification Framework.
Obegolu also noted federal approval for the programmes through the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). Since 2021, these programmes have trained individuals in areas like workplace organisation, business communication, information technology, and financial and legal support functions.
He described the TFOM programme, which focuses on technical facility management, emphasizing its role in equipping trainees with competencies across 12 critical learning fields, including safe working practices and electrical installation. The programme’s methodology, combining classroom instruction with practical field training, ensures graduates are highly employable.
Obegolu praised the graduates for developing essential soft skills such as problem-solving and teamwork, which will benefit their careers and contribute positively to their organisations and society. He expressed gratitude to GIZ and other stakeholders for their support and encouraged graduates to embrace future opportunities with a commitment to lifelong learning.
Mrs Britta Erckelens, Programme Manager at Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), commended the graduates for establishing a foundation of excellence and urged them to contribute to their industries to drive economic growth in Nigeria. She praised the collaboration between GIZ and ACCI, enhancing the ACC-IBEST Centre’s capacity to deliver high-quality training programmes.
Mrs Phoebe Ocheche, Head of Training at the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), advised graduates to remain focused and share their experiences. She thanked GIZ and ACCI for their efforts in the training’s success.
Mr Mamza Chakiram from the Industrial Arbitration Panel, on behalf of the graduates, thanked ACCI, GIZ, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the training’s success, noting that the experience exposed them to various technology programmes.