Southern Kaduna has long faced multifaceted challenges, particularly in the area of skills development. This persistent gap has curtailed the potential of many young people, leaving them ill-equipped to compete with their peers in other regions of the country. As the global economy pivots decisively toward specialized, high-demand skill sets, we must recognize and respond to this reality. By embracing the concept of the “skill economy,” we position ourselves to seize emerging opportunities and to build sustainable livelihoods that will benefit both individuals and their communities.
Guided by this understanding, SKAID Foundation is deeply committed to closing the skills divide and equipping Southern Kaduna’s youth with relevant, high-income abilities suited to the 21st century. On May 7, 2025, we formally opened applications for the SKAID Trade & Skill Acquisition Training program. From 95 applications, we identified 50 highly motivated and qualified candidates. Over the next 60 days, these young men and women will receive tuition-free, hands-on instruction in four critical trades: Electrical & Electronics Repair, Solar Installation & Setup, Welding & Fabrication, and Beauty Care & Makeup. Classes and practical workshops will be held at the Maryamu & Yakubu Skill Development and Educational Foundation, a facility chosen for its accessibility and its commitment to fostering an environment of excellence.
By investing in these specialized training pathways, we have not only empower these individuals to become true experts in their chosen fields but also catalyze broader economic growth throughout Southern Kaduna. Graduates of this inaugural cohort will emerge with marketable, sustainable skills—positioning them to secure meaningful employment, launch small businesses, or pursue further technical certifications. We anticipate that this initiative will have a ripple effect: as these young people begin to apply and teach their new expertise, they will inspire peers, strengthen families, and contribute to the region’s overall resilience. In this way, SKAID Foundation reaffirms its mission to bridge gaps, elevate human potential, and drive lasting transformation across Southern Kaduna.