Radda empowers 1,169 Katsina youths with skills, starter packs

Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, Katsina State Governor, has empowered not less than 1,169 youths with practical skills and starter packs under the Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA) in partnership with the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) Mechatronics Apprenticeship Programme.

The beneficiaries graduated on Monday at the People’s Square, Government House, Katsina, marking a major milestone in the state’s efforts to tackle youth unemployment and promote sustainable economic development.

Congratulating the graduates, Radda praised their commitment and resilience throughout the one-year intensive training programme.

“Today, we celebrate not just the completion of a programme, but the resilience, determination, and commitment of our young people who have chosen the path of self-improvement and enterprise,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s focus on practical empowerment and people-centred development, stressing that human capital remains the backbone of any thriving society.

“From the inception of this administration, we made it clear that our focus would be on meaningful empowerment and real economic development. The true wealth of any society lies in the capacity and productivity of its people.

“The most effective way to address unemployment is to empower our youth with practical skills that can translate into real economic opportunities,” he said.

He explained that the mechatronics programme aligns with global technological trends, particularly in the automotive sector.

“The world is changing rapidly, and the automobile industry is becoming increasingly sophisticated. Mechatronics represents the future, combining mechanical knowledge with electronics and modern diagnostics,” the governor noted.

Describing the starter packs as tools for independence, Radda urged beneficiaries to make productive use of them.

Babangida Ruma, Director-General of KASEDA, in his remarks, described the graduation as a testament to strong leadership and effective policy implementation in the state.

According to him, the initiative equips participants with practical, market-relevant skills through hands-on training, mentorship, and industry exposure.