Borno State Governor Unveils State-of-the-Art Vocational Training Center in Biu
In a bid to tackle the pressing issue of youth unemployment and skill development, the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, inaugurated a cutting-edge vocational training center in Biu town, the administrative hub of Biu Local Government Area.
Named the “Borno State Vocational Training Enterprise, Biu,” this comprehensive facility boasts an impressive array of 15 workshops, each equipped with modern and advanced training equipment.
The diverse workshops cater to an array of trades, ranging from tailoring and fashion design, hairdressing and cosmetology, to welding, plumbing, and pipe-fitting. Carpenters and joiners, builders, electricians, solar panel installers, automobile and mechatronics enthusiasts, and even those interested in agricultural technology, knitting, crocheting, aluminum fabrication, and ICT, have a dedicated space to hone their skills and acquire valuable expertise.
Speaking during the inaugural ceremony, Governor Zulum stressed the urgency of addressing the growing challenge of youth unemployment, especially among the populous MMC, Jere, and Biu Local Government Areas. The Governor also expressed concern over the high dropout rates in schools, which further exacerbate the employment crisis. He warned that the state’s failure to address this situation could potentially lead to another crisis.
To counter these alarming trends, Governor Zulum outlined his administration’s commitment to establishing various training centers across the state. These centers aim to equip young people with the necessary skills to secure sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized that empowering the youth through skill development is a proactive step towards averting potential unrest and turmoil.
Simultaneously, Governor Zulum emphasized his administration’s unwavering resolve to address the issue of political thuggery. He revealed that, alongside initiatives aimed at job creation and skills training, the state government is instituting penalties to deter youths from engaging in violent political thuggery.
To this end, the Borno State House of Assembly has undertaken a comprehensive review of the existing penal court laws, which had remained unchanged since 1994. Under the revised legislation, individuals found guilty of participating in political thuggery will face a severe sentence of 7 years of imprisonment. Governor Zulum’s proclamation underscores the state’s commitment to curbing youth restiveness and maintaining a peaceful and secure environment for all residents.
In essence, the inauguration of the Borno State Vocational Training Enterprise in Biu marks a significant stride towards tackling unemployment and empowering the youth with invaluable skills.
Governor Zulum’s multifaceted approach, combining vocational training with stringent penalties for political thuggery, aims to create a conducive atmosphere for growth, stability, and progress within the state.