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In a grand event that underscored the importance of youth skills in fostering peace and development, the UNESCO Abuja Office, in collaboration with the Kano State Government and the Aliko Dangote Ultra-Modern Skills Acquisition Center, organized the national launch of the Better Education for Africa’s Rise (BEAR) III Project, funded by the Republic of Korea, on the occasion of the World Youth Skills Day. 

The event flagged off a three-day National Skills Exhibition with over 50 innovators who showcased their products. The event, held in Kano State, brought over 300 participants together including high-profile dignitaries, such as the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Minister of State for Youth Development, the Chief of Staff to the Kano State Governor, state commissioners, and other key stakeholders.

The opening session commenced with a welcome address by Hon. Alkasim Hussaini Wudil, Center Coordinator of the Dangote Ultra-Modern Skills Acquisition Center, Kano State, who welcomed the dignitaries and attendees to the center.

Mr. Abdourahamane Diallo, Head of the UNESCO Abuja Office and UNESCO Representative in Nigeria, appreciated the collaboration between UNESCO and the Government of Kano State. Mr. Diallo emphasized the important role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in achieving Agenda 2030. He highlighted TVET as the ‘master key’ for economic development, advocating for its role in promoting lifelong learning, alleviating poverty, fostering peace, and supporting the transition to green economies and environmental sustainability. He further elaborated on how TVET equips youth and adults with essential skills for accessing the world of work, including self-employment, increased productivity, and higher wage levels. Additionally, TVET provides valuable skills development opportunities for out-of-school youth and individuals not in education, employment, or training.

Mr. Manish Joshi, BEAR III Regional Coordinator, provided an insightful overview of the BEAR III project, which aims to improve youth employment opportunities and strengthen economies in sub-Saharan Africa by addressing the requirements of the evolving labour market. The BEAR III project, funded by the Republic of Korea, is set to be implemented over five years, from 2023 to 2027. During his presentation, Mr. Joshi highlighted the project's three main pillars: Quality, Relevance, and Attractiveness

Hon Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, Minister of State for Youth Development, commended the Aliko Dangote Ultra-Modern Skills Acquisition Center for its remarkable work and emphasized the critical importance of skills for every youth in Nigeria.

The session concluded with remarks from the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf, who highlighted the state’s efforts in youth skills development and empowerment programs. He commended UNESCO for the BEAR III project and affirmed Kano State’s support for its successful implementation. The official launch of the BEAR III Project marked the end of the opening session.