By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage– The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is set to commence a series of empowerment and capacity-building programmes in Kano State aimed at equipping women, youths and students with practical skills to enhance economic opportunities and promote self-reliance.
The initiatives, scheduled to begin this week, form part of NASENI’s efforts to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, renewable energy adoption, STEM education and sustainable livelihoods across the country.
Leading the programmes is the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, who will oversee activities designed to strengthen local capacity and create pathways for employment and enterprise development.
The first event, the closing ceremony of the NASENI She-Powers Energy Initiative, will take place on Thursday in Kano. Under the programme, 50 women drawn from Kumbotso and Tarauni Local Government Areas received training in solar installation and maintenance, renewable energy systems and enterprise development.
NASENI said the participants underwent intensive practical training aimed at building technical expertise and positioning them to take advantage of emerging opportunities in Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector.
The agency noted that the initiative is expected to enhance income-generating opportunities for the beneficiaries while contributing to increased adoption of clean energy solutions within their communities.
On Saturday, NASENI will also flag off a broad-based Skill Acquisition Training Programme in Kano, targeting youths and other residents with vocational and technology-driven skills.
The programme will offer training in solar installation and maintenance, welding and metal fabrication, mobile phone hardware repairs, as well as dry food processing and packaging.
As part of efforts to promote science and technology education, NASENI will also distribute laptops and STEM innovation kits to selected schools across the state.
The Deputy Governor of Kano State is expected to attend the flag-off ceremony as Special Guest of Honour, while Halilu will serve as Chief Host.
According to the agency, the interventions are designed to foster innovation, support entrepreneurship, create jobs and drive inclusive economic growth in Kano State.
NASENI added that the programmes align with its mandate of leveraging science, technology and innovation to improve livelihoods, empower communities and accelerate Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.
