The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has equipped young people and women in Ile-Ife, Osun State, with advanced technical skills and equipment aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.

The intervention was implemented under the NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP), through which beneficiaries received training in areas including advanced photography and drone operations, shoemaking, CCTV and inverter installation, and tailoring.

The three-day programme took place from August 7 to 9, 2026, at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Centre, Ile-Ife. It was designed to provide participants with practical knowledge and equipment that could help them establish or strengthen income-generating businesses.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, NASENI Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by the overseeing officer of the Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI), Ilesha, Ahmed Olaoye Hamzat, said the initiative was intended to take empowerment beyond the awarding of certificates.

He said the programme combined practical training with equipment and opportunities aimed at helping beneficiaries achieve economic independence.

According to him, having both the technical knowledge and the necessary equipment would allow participants to put their newly acquired skills to immediate use and begin offering services.

Halilu encouraged the beneficiaries to regard the equipment provided as starter tools for developing viable businesses.

He urged them to apply their skills to deliver quality services, train other people and generate employment opportunities within their communities.

The NASENI chief executive said the ultimate measure of the programme’s success would be its multiplier effect.

This, he explained, would include beneficiaries establishing successful businesses, employing other young people, training apprentices and delivering dependable technical and creative services.

Halilu said the empowerment programme reflects NASENI’s 3Cs of Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation.

Through the approach, the agency supports innovative solutions, collaborates with stakeholders and communities, and seeks to transform technology, skills and innovation into economic value.

He commended the community leaders, trainers, partners, and other stakeholders who contributed to the programme’s implementation.

He particularly acknowledged the Chairman of the House Committee on NASENI, Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro, for supporting efforts to expand practical skills and technology-driven opportunities for young people and women.

Speaking through his representative, Felix Olayemi Oruma, Ajilesoro praised NASENI for bringing the skills programme to Ile-Ife.

He described the training as an opportunity for beneficiaries to upgrade their knowledge, raise their professional standards and make effective use of modern equipment.

Ajilesoro said the intervention represented a sustainable model of empowerment because it provides participants with the skills and tools required to become economically productive rather than depending solely on direct financial assistance.

Beneficiaries received training in advanced tailoring, CCTV and inverter installation, shoemaking, and photography and drone operations.

The programme aimed to help participants develop businesses and expand their opportunities to generate income through the skills and equipment provided.

Source: MSME Africa Online