Abuja: The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has announced the successful completion of examinations for trainees of the Skill-Up Artisan (SUPA) programme, aiming to elevate their skills to meet international standards.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Afiz Ogun, the Director-General and Chief Executive of ITF, disclosed this information during an on-the-spot check of the trainees undergoing the examination for the second phase of the SUPA programme focused on project management in Abuja. Ogun emphasized that the purpose of these examinations is to bolster the artisans’ capabilities to achieve global standards. He highlighted ITF’s dedication to training, certifying, and licensing Nigerian artisans with credentials recognized worldwide.
The examinations were conducted by the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria (CIPMN). Dr. Ogun stated that the goal was to elevate the trainees to international standards and impart comprehensive knowledge of project management. He further explained that training without subsequent examination holds little value, and quality examinations are essential for achieving the desired outcomes. Dr. Ogun noted that the first examination centered on project management and that ITF officials were visiting examination centers across Abuja to oversee the conduct of these exams.
For trainees facing language barriers, interpreters were provided to ensure they could fully participate in the examinations. Approximately 100,000 artisans are involved in the examination process nationwide, with 30,000 participants included in the first batch. The examinations are being conducted in phases, and ITF has established around 30 training centers throughout the country, with plans to establish more to accommodate the growing number of trainees.
The Director-General emphasized that internationally accredited certifications would help mitigate unemployment and related socio-economic issues by equipping artisans with marketable skills. The SUPA programme’s certification framework integrates globally recognized qualifications to enhance the employability of the trainees. The certification process involves a three-tiered training structure: the foundation phase for basic skills assessment, SUPA one for soft skills development (culminating in the upcoming CIPMN exams), and SUPA two for advanced technical training.
Successful trainees who complete the process receive certifications validating their skills for direct employment, international placements, or self-employment. Dr. Ogun urged Nigerian artisans to join the SUPA programme, which is designed to address the skilled manpower gap in Nigeria by training, certifying, and empowering artisans for both local and international markets.
Mr. Henry Mbadiwe, Registrar and Chief Executive of CIPMN, explained that training artisans in project management ensures they understand risk management and strategic planning, leading to resource efficiency and effectiveness. Mr. Bamidele Ojo, one of the participants, expressed gratitude to ITF, CIPMN, and the Federal Government for sharing expertise, providing valuable insights, and enhancing their skills. Ojo noted that the examination would boost their experience and knowledge, elevating their capabilities to a higher level.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Dr. Ogun, along with management staff from CIPMN and several journalists, monitored the examination centers in the Federal Capital Territory.