BUA Cement Plc has graduated 60 youths from its host communities in Sokoto State after they completed a six-month training programme in heavy-duty machine operation.

The initiative forms part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts to promote youth empowerment and entrepreneurship while equipping young people with practical skills that can improve employment opportunities within its host communities.

The graduation ceremony was held at the company’s Sokoto Plant, where the trainees received recognition after completing the six-month programme.

Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who attended the event as the Special Guest of Honour, commended BUA Cement for its continued investment in skills acquisition, youth employment and poverty reduction.

The governor was represented at the ceremony by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industries, Haruna Abba Bashir.

Aliyu said the Sokoto State Government remained committed to providing an enabling environment where businesses and commercial activities can thrive.

He noted that programmes designed to equip young people with practical skills could contribute to reducing unemployment, discouraging idleness and supporting economic development across the state.

The governor also urged the graduates, particularly those who secured employment with BUA Cement, to approach their new responsibilities with commitment, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility.

Speaking about the training programme, BUA’s Assistant Director of Human Resources, Abdulrasheed Mode, said the participants underwent six months of intensive theoretical and practical instruction.

According to Mode, the training equipped the participants to operate different types of equipment and carry out basic operations associated with heavy-duty machinery work.

He disclosed that 52 of the 60 successful trainees had been offered employment by BUA Cement, describing the outcome as a significant achievement for the programme.

Mode advised those who had secured employment to follow the company’s regulations and uphold high standards of professionalism in their respective roles.

BUA Cement Managing Director, Yusuf Haliru Binji, said the programme was developed to strengthen the company’s specialised workforce while creating opportunities for young people from its host communities to advance economically.

Binji was represented at the event by the Head of Administration and Corporate Affairs, Sada Suleiman.

He expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government for its support and cooperation in advancing business activities and community development.

Binji also reaffirmed BUA Cement’s commitment to creating opportunities for residents of its host communities through the company’s various CSR initiatives.

Traditional rulers from the host communities also commended BUA Cement for its continued investment in youth development and community empowerment.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the graduates by dignitaries, including representatives of BUA Cement management and traditional rulers.

The training programme forms part of BUA Cement’s broader CSR efforts aimed at equipping young people in its host communities with practical skills while supporting entrepreneurship, employment and economic opportunities.

Source: MSME Africa