C'River Begins Artisan Training Under VoSEP Programme
By Ekanem ASUQUO
The Cross River State Government has announced the commencement of the first phase of its Vocational Skills Empowerment Programme, VoSEP, aimed at training and certifying artisans across the state.
The initiative, driven by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Content, is designed to bridge skill gaps and create sustainable opportunities for youths through technical, entrepreneurial and soft skills development.
Speaking during an inspection tour of training facilities, the Special Adviser, Awatt Caleb, described the programme as a fulfilment of campaign promises to empower young people with practical skills.
He noted that VoSEP is structured to equip participants with hands on experience and globally competitive competencies that will enhance employability and self reliance.
At the University of Calabar Entrepreneurship Development Centre, one of the designated training hubs, Caleb and his team were received by the Director of Business, Prof. Bassey Ebi, who commended the initiative and pledged the centre’s support.
Prof. Ebi emphasised the importance of equipping artisans with modern technical skills, noting that the centre has trained and certified thousands of youths over the years, many of whom are now gainfully employed.
He assured that the institution would collaborate fully with the state government to ensure the success of the programme.
Also speaking, Prof. Markson Aniedi Abasi described the initiative as timely, pointing out that inadequate skills have hindered youth productivity in the past. He urged stakeholders to take advantage of the opportunity to drive meaningful change.
The visit featured a tour of the training facilities, showcasing available equipment for practical sessions, and concluded with a group photograph.
The programme is expected to enhance skills acquisition and boost youth empowerment across Cross River State.
