Benue State Government has launched the first phase of its International Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment Programme aimed at equipping young people with globally competitive vocational and technical skills.
The initiative, introduced by Governor Hyacinth Alia in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment, is currently underway in Belarus.
A statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, says selected participants have commenced intensive vocational training at the Republican Institute for Vocational Studies, RIPO, in Belarus.
The programme combines classroom learning with practical hands-on training across several technical and artisanal fields linked to infrastructure development and emerging industry demands.
Officials say the initiative is designed to expose participants to modern digital and technical skills needed to compete in today’s evolving global workforce.
The Benue State Government describes the programme as a strategic investment in youth development, with emphasis on internationally relevant certification and employability.
Governor Hyacinth Alia also disclosed plans to expand the programme to the agricultural and automotive sectors as part of broader efforts to strengthen youth empowerment and international partnerships.
The Benue delegation, led by the Director General of the Bureau for Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, Benita Shuluwa, was formally received by officials of RIPO, with training activities already underway.
Both parties expressed optimism about deepening collaboration, with discussions ongoing to extend the programme to additional centres within the institute.
Officials believe the initiative will create wider opportunities for skills acquisition, innovation and global exposure for youths in Benue State.
Editor: Ada Ononye
