Speaking at the quarterly ministerial briefing held at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Tuesday, Fakai said three skills acquisition cities have been constructed across the state’s three senatorial zones — in Soba town, Rigachikun, and Samarun Kataf.
According to her, the training will cover welding, aluminium fabrication, fashion design, and solar panel installation.
The commissioner noted that the initiative aims to create jobs by preparing beneficiaries for self-employment or placement in reputable companies.
“Together, these three skills cities are expected to graduate 12,000 youths in the first year and 24, 000 by the second year of operation in 13 trade areas,” she said.
“Some of the skills to be taught include welding, aluminium fabrication, fashion design and solar panels installation. Our youths will also get certifications and we are partnering with NBTE for this programme.
“We hope that most of our unemployed youths who undergo this training will be self-reliant or be engaged by reputable companies. This is a way of creating jobs.”
Fakai also said the government is set to transform the Panteka market — home to over 38,000 artisans — into an industrial hub.
”The governor, in his benevolence, saw the need for the market to be remodelled. He is providing ICT facilities for them and road networks, he is also providing a clinic and a fire station,’’ Fakai said.
She added that Kaduna was also the first state in the country to launch the AI and digital literacy content in Hausa in order to bridge the digital divide.
The commissioner added that Kaduna is the “first state in Nigeria to launch AI and digital literacy content in Hausa” and had received several national and international commendations, including recognition from the Gates Foundation and the National Broadband Alliance of Nigeria.
“Kaduna state received the National Broadband Alliance of Nigeria (NBAN) Award of Excellence for her efforts in deepening broadband penetration by being the first to grant a free right of way for broadband infrastructure in February 2025,” she said.
“We are among the three states in the federation to receive a special commendation from the Gates Foundation on strides in AI, with special funding commitment by the foundation.”
