The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has empowered over 200 young people in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State with training in solar energy installation and maintenance.
The initiative, carried out in partnership with the Murna Foundation, also included sessions on financial literacy to strengthen participants’ business management and entrepreneurship skills.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the programme is part of the UNDP’s Northwest Climate-Peace Hubs — an initiative designed to link climate resilience with peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Murna Foundation, Hajiya Aisha Ahmed, said the training was designed to equip youths with employable and sustainable skills in renewable energy.
Represented by Dr. Shafi’u Abubakar, a member of the foundation, Ahmed explained that the programme would open up entrepreneurial opportunities and help youths in security-challenged communities become economically independent.
“The goal is to empower young people living around border areas affected by insecurity with both technical and business knowledge to start their own ventures,” she said.
“This effort will stimulate local economic growth, promote a green economy, and create a generation of skilled entrepreneurs. It will also help reduce unemployment and curb involvement in criminal activities,” she added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Jibia Local Government Area, Alhaji Sirajo Ado, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting programmes that promote youth and women empowerment.
Represented by the Vice Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Aliyu, Ado urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the knowledge gained for personal and community development.
Also speaking, the District Head of Jibia, Alhaji Rabe Rabiu, lauded the UNDP and Murna Foundation for their commitment to improving the lives of young people, describing the initiative as timely and impactful.
Represented by Alhaji Sade Rabiu, Magajin Garin Jibia, he encouraged participants to treat the training as a valuable opportunity to transform their futures.
Several participants who spoke with NAN expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the skills acquired would help them become self-sufficient and contribute positively to their communities.