Potter 7 Limited, in partnership with the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Project and with support from the World Bank, has successfully trained and graduated 100 masons in Plateau State. The beneficiaries also received starter packs after attaining the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Level 2 certification for 6 months.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Government Science and Technical College (GSTC) Bukuru in Jos South Local Government Area. The event celebrated the empowerment of local artisans and highlighted the commitment of Potter 7, IDEAS, and the World Bank to vocational training.
In his welcome address, Managing Director of Potter 7 Limited, Bldr. Lawrence Gabriel Manggei, expressed joy and pride in addressing the graduates. He described the event as a celebration of skills, hard work, and dedication.
Manggei thanked the IDEAS Project and the World Bank for supporting youth empowerment and encouraged the graduates to use their starter packs as tools to build businesses and serve their communities. He stressed that these packs represent both trust and opportunity.
“Quality work, integrity, and continuous learning are essential,” Manggei said, urging the graduates to uphold professional standards and make a positive impact in their communities.
Presenting an overview of the project, Prince Iheanacho, representing IDEAS Project Coordinator Mr. Blessing Ogwu, described the initiative as a celebration of skills, resilience, and the dignity of labour. He praised the inclusion of young women in a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Prince Iheanacho highlighted that the IDEAS Project, launched fully in 2022, has renovated and equipped 38 technical colleges with over 100 modern workshops. The project has trained numerous technical teachers and master craft persons nationwide.
He added that after its 2023 restructuring, the project now focuses on market-relevant skills for self-reliance. The 100 graduates are part of a pilot phase that has trained over 1,000 youths, with a target to reach over 75,000 young Nigerians.
While presenting certificates and starter packs, former Plateau State Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Bldr. Adedeji Paul Adeleye, urged beneficiaries to value competence over certificates. He encouraged them to use their tools responsibly, maintain professionalism, and contribute to national development.
Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude. Yusuf Gyang commended Potter 7 and IDEAS for their commitment to quality training, praising instructors for their dedication, hands-on teaching, and guidance in professional standards.
Naomi Magaji expressed excitement at being part of the empowerment programme, describing the graduates as “awesome” and expressing happiness for the opportunity received.
In special remarks, Da Pius Jugu, Gwom Rwei Kuru of Jos South, encouraged graduates to apply their knowledge in practical ways to benefit both themselves and the nation.
Former Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Fom Dalyop Gwottson, highlighted entrepreneurship and professionalism, urging graduates to use their skills and starter packs responsibly to positively impact their communities.
Bldr. A.A Okwa, Director General of C-STEMP praised the graduates for their competence, noting that the NSQ Certificate is nationally and globally recognized. He also highlighted the contributions of female assistants and emphasized the critical role of artisans in national development.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Audu Alanjong, Director of Administration, Plateau State Ministry of Education, praised the project for teaching quality building skills. He encouraged graduates to share their knowledge and highlighted the importance of women’s participation in the programme.
Hon. Chomoshen Emmanuel of the Jos South Legislative arm commended the initiative for bridging knowledge gaps among masons and artisans. He encouraged graduates to take their training seriously, use their starter tools for empowerment, and contribute positively to their communities.
In a goodwill message, Mrs. Wambutda Patu, Pioneer Female Principal of GSTC Bukuru, commended the IDEAS Project for empowering graduates. She emphasized collaboration, mentorship, and continued partnerships to strengthen youth skills and impact the TVET community.
Dr. John Iliya, Director TVET, praised Potter 7 and IDEAS for supporting skills development. He encouraged graduates to apply their acquired skills effectively, build for themselves, and contribute to the growth and improvement of Plateau State and Nigeria.
The ceremony marked and important step in Plateau State’s vocational training and demonstrated the critical role of skilled artisans in socio-economic growth.
