Potter 7 Limited, working in partnership with the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Project and supported by the World Bank, has graduated 100 masons in Plateau State after successfully completing National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Level 2 training. The beneficiaries were also provided with starter packs to support entrepreneurship and self-employment.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Government Science and Technical College (GSTC) Bukuru in Jos South Local Government Area, bringing together government officials, traditional rulers, educationists, and professionals from the construction sector. The event underscored the growing role of vocational and technical education in addressing unemployment and improving construction standards.
Welcoming guests and graduates, the Managing Director of Potter 7 Limited, Bldr. Lawrence Gabriel Manggei, expressed joy and pride in the achievement of the beneficiaries. He described the occasion as a celebration of skills, hard work, and dedication.
Manggei acknowledged the IDEAS Project and the World Bank for their sustained support for youth empowerment. He encouraged the graduates to deploy their starter packs responsibly in building businesses and serving their communities, emphasizing that the tools represent both trust and opportunity.
“Quality work, integrity, and continuous learning are essential,” Manggei said, charging the graduates to uphold professional standards and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Presenting an overview of the programme, Prince Iheanacho, representing the IDEAS Project Coordinator, Mr. Blessing Ogwu, described the initiative as a celebration of skills, resilience, and the dignity of labour. He also commended the participation of young women in a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Prince Iheanacho disclosed that the IDEAS Project, fully launched in 2022, has renovated and equipped 38 technical colleges across the country with more than 100 modern workshops. He added that the project has trained numerous technical teachers and master craft persons nationwide.
According to him, following its restructuring in 2023, the project now places emphasis on market-relevant skills aimed at self-reliance. He noted that the 100 Plateau graduates are part of a pilot phase that has trained over 1,000 youths nationwide, with plans for further expansion.
While presenting certificates and starter packs to the graduates, former Plateau State Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Bldr. Adedeji Paul Adeleye, urged the beneficiaries to value competence over certificates. He advised them to use their tools responsibly, maintain professionalism, and contribute to national development.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Yusuf Gyang expressed appreciation to Potter 7 Limited and the IDEAS Project for the quality of training provided. He praised the instructors for their dedication, hands-on teaching methods, and guidance on professional standards.
Another beneficiary, Naomi Magaji, expressed excitement at being part of the empowerment programme, describing the graduates as “awesome” and expressing happiness over the opportunity received.
In special remarks, the Gwom Rwei Kuru of Jos South, Da Pius Jugu, encouraged the graduates to apply their acquired knowledge in practical ways that would benefit both themselves and the nation.
Former Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Fom Dalyop Gwottson, emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and professionalism, urging the beneficiaries to use their skills and starter packs responsibly to positively impact their communities.
Bldr. A.A. Okwa, praised the graduates for their competence, noting that the NSQ certificate is nationally and globally recognized. He also highlighted the contributions of female assistants and emphasized the critical role of artisans in national development.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Plateau State Ministry of Education, the Director of Administration, Mr. Audu Alanjong, commended the initiative for promoting quality building skills. He encouraged the graduates to share their knowledge with others and stressed the importance of women’s participation in the programme.
Hon. Chomoshen Emmanuel of the Jos South Legislative Arm described the initiative as impactful, noting that it bridges knowledge gaps among masons and artisans. He urged the graduates to take their training seriously, use their starter tools effectively, and contribute positively to their communities.
In a goodwill message, the Pioneer Female Principal of GSTC Bukuru, Mrs. Wambutda Patu, commended the IDEAS Project for empowering the graduates. She emphasized the need for collaboration, mentorship, and sustained partnerships to strengthen youth skills and deepen impact within the TVET community.
Also speaking, the Director of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. John Iliya, praised Potter 7 Limited and the IDEAS Project for supporting skills development. He encouraged the graduates to apply their skills effectively, build sustainable livelihoods, and contribute to the growth and development of Plateau State and Nigeria.
The ceremony marked an important step in Plateau State’s vocational training efforts and reaffirmed the critical role of skilled artisans in driving socio-economic growth.
