The Industrial Training Fund states that it has successfully conducted examinations for the Skill-Up Artisan programme, enabling trainees to achieve international standards and enhance their proficiency.

Director-general and chief executive of ITF, Afiz Ogun, disclosed this during an on-the-spot check of trainees undergoing the examination for the second phase of the SUPA programme on project management in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Ogun said that the essence of the examination was to enhance the artisans’ capabilities to meet global standards, adding that the ITF was highly committed to training, certifying, and licensing Nigerian artisans with internationally recognised credentials.

He said that the examinations were administered by the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria.

The director-general stated that for trainees who cannot speak English, an interpreter would be available to support them, ensuring they can communicate in any language they understand.

He noted that approximately 100,000 artisans were participating in the examination nationwide, while 30,000 participants were writing in the first batch, adding that the examination was conducted in batches.

Mr Ogun said that the ITF has established approximately 30 training centers across the country, adding that more would be established to accommodate the trainees.

The director-general stressed that internationally accredited certifications would reduce unemployment and address related socio-economic challenges by equipping artisans with marketable skills.

He said that the SUPA programme’s certification framework integrates globally recognised qualifications to enhance the employability of the trainees.

Mr Ogun said that the SUPA certification process involved a three-tiered training structure.

“These structures are the foundation phase for basic skills assessment, SUPA one for soft skills development (culminating in the upcoming CIPMN exams), and SUPA two for advanced technical training,” he said.

He noted that successful trainees who have completed the process had received certifications that validate their skills for direct employment, international placements, or self-employment.

Mr Ogun called on Nigerian artisans to join the SUPA programme, adding that it was an initiative designed to address Nigeria’s skilled manpower gap by training, certifying, and empowering them for local and international markets.

Henry Mbadiwe, registrar/chief executive, CIPMN, said that the essence of training artisans on project management was to ensure they understand how to plan for management’s risks.

Bamidele Ojo, one of the participants, thanked the ITF, CIPMN, and the federal government for sharing their expertise, providing valuable insights, and enhancing their skills.

Mr Ojo said that the examination was also part of the support that would enhance their experience and knowledge, as well as increase their ability to a higher level.

The ITF boss, some management staff members of the CIPMN, and journalists monitored the centres in the FCT.

(NAN)