Skills Acquisition Training Programs Change Lives for Youth in Nigeria

Naomi MacMurdie
December 8, 2023
A group of youths in blue shirts are participating in a skills acquisition program, working together on a bucket.

Students learn how to make products during GPF Nigeria training workshop.

“I am immensely grateful to the Global Peace Foundation for the life-changing opportunity they provided me through their skill acquisition training program. Before joining the program, I had limited prospects and lacked direction in life. However, today, I can proudly say that I am a skilled producer of petroleum jelly and mentholated balm, thanks to the invaluable training I received.”

Tahir Ahmed Inuwa is one of many young Nigerians who have benefitted from Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria’s Skill Acquisition Training Programs. Rooted in the vision of “One Family under God,” the program embodies an unwavering commitment to life-skills building for ethical citizens, unity, empowerment, and the betterment of society. The latest workshop on October 4, 2023, at the Borstal Training Institute in Kaduna provided practical training in petroleum jelly production, mentholated balm production, and liquid soap making to fifty enthusiastic students.

Youth in Nigeria participating in a skills acquisition training program gather around a table, learning how to prepare food.

Students learn how to make products during GPF Nigeria training workshop.

Tahir went on to describe his experience, saying:

“This training has not only equipped me with practical skills but has also opened doors to financial independence and self-reliance. I can now produce these products on my own, and it’s not just about making a living; it’s about building a better future for myself and my family.

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Global Peace Foundation for believing in me and countless others like me. Your commitment to peace, unity, and empowerment is evident in the opportunities you’ve provided. I am determined to be a responsible citizen, uphold the values I’ve learned, and contribute positively to my community. Thank you for helping me realize my potential and for being a guiding light in my life.”

A group of youth in Nigeria are preparing food on a table, participating in skills acquisition training programs that have the power to change lives.

Students learn how to make products during GPF Nigeria training workshop.

The Skill Acquisition Training Program is empowering students with valuable skills, nurturing responsible citizenship and ethical conduct, promoting economic self-reliance, and enhancing social cohesion among participants. Graduates of the program are now proficient in independently producing these products, enabling them to achieve economic empowerment, reduce recidivism, and contribute to community development. Moreover, the program has fostered improved social harmony and understanding among participants, fostering enhanced confidence and personal growth.

A youth in Nigeria, wearing a blue shirt, standing next to a table during Skills Acquisition Training Programs that aim to change lives.

Principal Musa Dauda Doguwa addressing students.

Musa Dauda Doguwa, the principal at Borstal Training Institute Kaduna, said, “It is a privilege for me to be here today and witness the remarkable progress of the students who have participated in this Skill Acquisition Training Program. I want to express my sincere appreciation to the trainers, mentors, and entire team who have worked tirelessly to make this program a success. Your dedication to the personal and professional development of these students is commendable.”

Turning to the students, Principal Doguwa stated, “You have embarked on a journey of transformation, and I am confident that the skills and values you have acquired will serve you well in the future. Remember that being a student at the Borstal Institute is not a cause but a process of

development. Stay focused on your studies, uphold the principles of responsible citizenship, and be the positive ambassadors that our society needs. The success of this program reflects our shared commitment to creating a better future for our communities. Let us continue working together to empower more individuals and build a more united and prosperous society.”

Abdul Ahmed, Programs Manager for GPF Nigeria, extended his gratitude to all the participants and expressed that he was immensely proud of the students and mentors, saying, “Your hard work, enthusiasm, and determination have been the driving force behind the success of this program. Our mission has always been clear: to empower individuals and leaders with valuable skills, foster responsible citizenship, and promote peace and economic prosperity. Today, I can confidently say that we are making significant strides towards achieving these objectives.

A group of white jars on a wooden table, part of a Skills Acquisition Training Programs for Youth in Nigeria that aims to Change Lives.

Petroleum jelly produced by students during training session.

He went on to encourage the graduates to continue their journey of self-improvement and share the knowledge and values they have gained with others in their communities. “Remember that you are not only beneficiaries of this program; you are also ambassadors of positive change,” said Abdul.

Learn more about the inspiring programs that are fostering youth leadership development in Nigeria and donate to help GPF continue making a difference around the world.

Follow Us

Take Action

Create a positive and impactful change in your area today.

Recent Posts

Related Articles