Borno Trains 274 Women, Youths at Zainab Gimba Skills Acquisition Centre

Borno Trains 274 Women, Youths at Zainab Gimba Skills Acquisition Centre

…Graduates Receive Start-up Packages, Cash Support to Launch Businesses.

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Government has on Tuesday graduated 274 women, girls, and youths from the Zainab Gimba Second Chance Skills Acquisition School and Vocational Training Centre in Bama. This achievement comes on the heels of another 162 graduates being celebrated in Maiduguri just a day prior.

The initiative, held at the Zainab Gimba Second Chance Skills Acquisition School, provides start-up packages from the International Migration Organization (IMO), Dignity Kits, and cash support from the Borno State Government. Its primary objective is to empower women, girls, and youths who missed out on formal education, fostering economic growth and self-reliance.

Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, announced plans to replicate the initiative in Biu and engage more artisans by 2025. “The ‘Second Chance’ program will continue to grow,” Wakilbe stated.

The 274 graduates underwent extensive training in various vocational fields, with 160 completing comprehensive vocational training and the remaining participants gaining critical skills in diverse trades. Each graduate received start-up packages, dignity kits, and N50,000 in cash to launch their businesses.

Dr. Zainab Gimba, Member Representing Bama, Ngala, and Kala-Balge Federal Constituency, supported the initiative with a ₦1 million donation. She praised the program, emphasizing the importance of empowering women with skills to break stereotypes and achieve economic independence.

The event featured goodwill messages from local leaders and stakeholders, who encouraged the graduates to utilize the resources provided to foster economic growth and ensure sustainability. The graduates celebrated the occasion with a cultural dance, symbolizing a new beginning as they step forward into entrepreneurship and brighter futures.

Borno Trains 274 Women, Youths at Zainab Gimba Skills Acquisition Centre