Youths in Borno South have commended the state government’s vocational training and starter pack distribution programme, describing it as a vital economic lifeline.

The beneficiaries spoke in separate interviews on Monday at the Borno State Vocational Enterprise Institute in Biu.

They said the initiative was bridging skills gaps, tackling unemployment and empowering young people to become self-reliant and economically productive.

Usman Haruna, a 17-year-old graduate from Hawul Local Government Area, said the training and starter pack would transform his future.

Mr Haruna, the fifth of 11 children, said he arrived in Biu without knowing anyone but was admitted to study tailoring.

“This will change my life and help me fund my education at a higher institution while supporting my siblings’ educational aspirations,” he said.

He thanked Governor Babagana Zulum and the Ministry of Education for providing training opportunities and starter packs for youths.

“I had lost hope because my parents have 11 children. I thought secondary school would be my highest educational achievement.

“Now my hope has been rekindled because I can work, earn income and fund my education up to the university level,” Mr Haruna said.

Another graduate, 23-year-old Jagila Chinampi from Askira Uba, said the programme would enable her to establish a business and earn income.

“Soon I will get married. This training is my biggest empowerment because I will not depend entirely on my husband,” she said.

Ms Chinampi described the initiative as a major empowerment tool for girls, helping them become financially independent and less vulnerable to abuse.

Bintu Ali, a computer studies trainee, said she acquired valuable knowledge in graphic design and other digital skills over six months.

Ms Ali said the training would enable her to start a business before pursuing higher education and reduce financial pressure on her parents.

“I am grateful Governor Zulum provided this platform. It is helping youths and reducing truancy and involvement in social vices,” she said.

Umar Hassan from Kwaya Kusar Local Government Area said learning carpentry would make him more valuable to his community.

“We have nobody making furniture in my community, so there is already a market for the skills I have acquired,” Mr Hassan said.

The 18-year-old said he had been uncertain about his future after secondary school before gaining admission into the programme.

“I thank the state government, Prof. Zulum and everyone who contributed to the success of this programme,” he said.

The beneficiaries appealed to the government to sustain and expand the initiative to accommodate more youths across the state.

They stressed that vocational education and entrepreneurship support remain effective tools for reducing unemployment, poverty and crime in communities.

(NAN)