Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has described the graduation of 634 youth trainees from the Katsina Youth Craft Village (KYCV) as a ...
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has described the graduation of 634 youth trainees from the Katsina Youth Craft Village (KYCV) as a defining moment for youth empowerment, job creation, and economic transformation in the state.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, Radda said:
“Today’s event, the graduation of no fewer than 634 young men and women from the Katsina Youth Craft Village, is more than a ceremonial milestone. It is a testament to our shared belief in the power of education, skill acquisition and opportunity as tools for transformation.”
He disclosed that each graduate received a trade-specific starter pack, reportedly worth billions of naira in total value—making it the first time such a gesture was implemented in the institution’s history. The specific amount, however, was not disclosed.
“These starter packs are not mere handouts, they are instruments of empowerment, designed to catalyze job creation, innovation, and economic independence,” Radda said.
The governor warned that any graduate caught selling their starter pack would be penalized.
“Let me be very clear, anyone found selling their kit will face appropriate consequences,” he said.
He emphasized that accountability frameworks had been established, including agreements signed by parents or guardians, monitoring systems, and involvement of security agencies.
Radda highlighted several reforms made to reposition the Craft Village as a “Centre of Excellence” in Technical and Vocational Education and Training.
“Our strategic reforms include developing a business plan, accreditation under national and international standards, instructor training, alumni engagement, and integration with community projects like women’s centres and school furniture production,” he said.
He announced plans to introduce 10 new departments and renovate existing ones, describing the future KYCV as a flagship model for skills training in Nigeria.
Radda also acknowledged the role of former Governor Ibrahim Shema, under whose administration KYCV was originally established.
“Your visionary leadership laid the foundation for KYCV, and it is our honour to build upon that legacy,” he told Shema.
Former Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema, in his keynote address, praised the Radda administration for sustaining and expanding the original vision of KYCV.
“I am proud to see this centre thriving. These graduates are a testament to what we can achieve when leadership is focused and consistent,” Shema said.
He recounted the origin of the Craft Village, saying the vision was born out of his campaign observations in 2007.
“I envisioned our vibrant youths not as problems to be solved, but as great potential to be nurtured,” Shema recalled.
Shema narrated one of the proudest moments in his tenure—a 2013 visit where trainees demonstrated a remote-controlled electricity generator they had built using parts from multiple departments.
“I personally turned it on with the remote unit from a distance. It was a moment of pride and proof of what our young people are capable of,” he said.
He praised the Craft Village for consistently empowering youth from all 34 local governments of Katsina State since its inception in 2009, and urged the graduating trainees to become innovators, job creators, and ambassadors of progress.
“Today, we are witnesses to the further fulfilment of a grand vision as these vibrant young men and women graduate with life-changing skills in areas such as tailoring, welding, film & photography, carpentry, leatherwork, and many more,” he added.
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