As the UNLOCK Training Program progresses to its pivotal phase, participants received encouraging news from Madam Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Education (SSAP-TVEE). Her announcement of increased grant opportunities and assistance with business registration aims to empower African entrepreneurs, particularly those in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
During the fifth day of the training session, Arogundade affirmed her commitment to aiding participants, including start-ups, in navigating the process of registering their businesses post-training. Notably, she pledged support for non-grant winners, while grant recipients would utilize a portion of their grants for registration.
In a bid to foster an entrepreneurial spirit, Arogundade urged attendees to actively engage in the training and present compelling reasons for grant consideration. This announcement was well-received, reflecting participants’ sustained enthusiasm throughout the program.
Key moments from the session included the introduction of a new facilitator, Mr. John Eyok, and an inspiring address by Hon. Tola Johnson, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs. Additionally, Hon. Adegboyega Nasir Isiaka, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Students Loans and Tertiary Education, highlighted the significance of the recently signed Students Loan Bill. The legislation now extends loan provisions to vocational trainees, ensuring financial support for education and skill acquisition.
Isiaka emphasized that eligible individuals attending accredited skill acquisition institutions would benefit from financial assistance, easing the burden of training costs. Although specific funding details are pending, the bill signals a promising opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue skills development without financial constraints.
The UNLOCK Training Program’s latest developments underscore a concerted effort to empower African MSMEs. With increased grant opportunities, facilitator support, and legislative backing, participants are poised to seize new avenues for business growth and development. As Africa embraces entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic advancement, initiatives like these play a crucial role in nurturing a vibrant and resilient business ecosystem.
