The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has announced an expansion of its Skills Upgrading and Professional Advancement (SUPA) programme, increasing the number of training centres from 800 to at least 1,500. The initiative aims to enhance workforce capacity by equipping participants with industry-relevant skills.
According to Mr. Ogun, the first phase of the training will span six to eight weeks and culminate in a certification exam. Successful candidates will proceed to the second phase, where they will undergo specialized technical training in their chosen fields. A full list of the 100,000 onboarded trainees will be made available on both the SUPA website and ITF’s official website.
To improve the quality of training, ITF is collaborating with original equipment manufacturers to procure training tools in bulk, ensuring participants have access to modern, industry-standard equipment. Additionally, ITF is working with the Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA) to facilitate job placements for graduates. Beyond employment, the organization is finalizing a business incubation structure aimed at supporting entrepreneurship, providing a pathway for trainees to establish their own businesses after completing the programme.
This expansion reflects ITF’s commitment to bridging Nigeria’s skills gap and fostering economic development by preparing a workforce that meets the demands of various industries.