Nestlé Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to closing the technical skills gap by giving young people the knowledge and abilities they need to contribute to the industrial acceleration that Nigeria’s economy needs.
At the third graduation ceremony for the Nestlé Technical Training Program in Abaji, Abuja, Wassim Elhusseini, the managing director and chief executive officer of Nestlé Nigeria, made this statement.
Elhusseini said, “At Nestlé, one of our focus areas is to contribute to the efforts to help young people develop the capabilities and skills they need to participate in growing our economy. The technical training program prepares youth to access economic opportunities either through employment or the creation of their enterprise with the acquired skills.
“This is important in view of the statistics showing that over 13.9 million youths are either unemployed, in unstable employment, or underemployed. I am very happy to announce to you today, that all graduates of this batch have been employed by Nestlé Nigeria. So, you see, this initiative is not only good for the individuals who participate and for their families and communities but also good for our company; a win-win. We are indeed creating shared value.”
Precious Iyamu, one of the 20 recipients of certificates of completion, said the training program’s successful completion is a tremendous accomplishment.
He said “This platform is an opportunity that we do not take for granted. We will make you proud. I can confidently tell young people across the country that they should not give up hope, as their dreams and aspirations are attainable if they put in the required work and dedication to prepare themselves to access opportunities when they become available.”
Through an intensive 18-month program, Nestlé Nigeria prepares participants for the prestigious London City and Guilds technical certification by teaching them machining, mechanical fitting operations, electrical operations, instrumentation operations, and automation skills.
Sunday Dare, the minister of youth and sports development, also spoke at the event. He was represented by the assistant director of the ministry’s enterprise development and promotion department, Hamid Nagogo, who urged the company to keep working with the government to give young people more opportunities for skill development.
The Director of Human Resources Management, Muhammed Bashir, spoke for the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Muhammad Bello, when he remarked, “Technical knowledge and other practical skills are critical tools required for the growth and development of any nation.
“I commend Nestlé Nigeria for her efforts in empowering the youth through education and training as this will go a long way to create a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.”