FG Launches Skill Up Artisan (SUPA) Program to Train 100,000 Youths Nationwide
FG Launches ‘Skill Up Artisan (SUPA)’ to Train 100,000 Youths Nationwide 🛠️
The Federal Government, through the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has kicked off the second phase of its flagship initiative—Skill Up Artisan (SUPA)—aimed at empowering Nigerian youth with marketable vocational skills. Following the successful graduation of 29,000 artisans from the pilot "Foundation" phase, the expansion will train an additional 100,000 participants nationwide.
🚀 What is SUPA?
SUPA is a three-phase vocational training programme designed to produce globally certified artisans capable of thriving in local and international markets:
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Foundation Phase (completed): Introduction to core skills, resulting in 29,000 certified artisans.
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SUPA I (current phase): Focuses on soft skills—including Project Management, Health & Safety, and Ethics & Patriotism—while preparing participants for free international certification exams.
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SUPA II: Will deliver specialized technical and entrepreneurial training in trades, equipping artisans with advanced tools and business know-how.
🎯 Expansion: What’s New in Phase II
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Trainee Intake: Additional 100,000 artisans, including the successful 29,000 from Phase I.
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Training Centres: Growing from 800 to roughly 1,500 accredited facilities across Nigeria.
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Equipment & Safety: Bulk procurement of Essential Training Materials (ETMs) and PPE ensures standardized training quality.
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Digital Systems: A technology-driven portal (www.supa.itf.gov.ng) now supports registration, assessments, centre verification, and stipend disbursement.
💡 Real-World Impact
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Income Support: Participants and training centres are receiving stipends as promised.
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Certification & Employment: SUPA graduates can now access international certification and will be linked to local industries or foreign job placements.
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Business Incubation: A newly designed incubation model will nurture graduates into entrepreneurs.
Industry Collaboration: ITF is partnering with NECA and manufacturers to secure jobs and ensure equipment standards.
🧭 Why It Matters
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Bridging Skill Gaps: The programme addresses Nigeria’s critical shortage of skilled workers while enhancing vocational training systems.
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Aligning with National Vision: Aligned with President Tinubu’s drive for economic diversification and job creation.
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Empowering Youth: Offering a viable alternative to formal education through structured skill-acquisition paths.
🗓️ What’s Next?
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SUPA I training will run 6–8 weeks, with participants sitting international certification exams at no cost.
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Transition to SUPA II for successful candidates, scaling apprenticeship to fully-trained artisans.
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Rollout Materials & PPE at training centres to ensure safety and quality.
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Facilities Expansion continues to reach underserved regions, addressing local labour needs.
⚙️ In Summary
The FG’s Skill Up Artisan (SUPA) initiative continues to redefine vocational training in Nigeria. With a bold vision of producing 100,000 industry-ready artisans, globally certified, and equipped for entrepreneurship or employment, SUPA is a key lever in tackling unemployment, driving industrial growth, and empowering youth across the nation.
📢 Are you an aspiring artisan or know someone who is? Visit supa.itf.gov.ng to register or learn more about this transformative opportunity.
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