Julius Berger Graduates Trainees, Launches Vocational Skills Academy
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc recently marked a significant achievement with the graduation of its first batch of trainees from the Vocational Skills Support Programme in Abuja. The event also saw the onboarding of 40 new trainees and the official launch of the Julius Berger Vocational Skills Academy.
The ceremony attracted key industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Industrial Training Fund and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria, who commended the company’s commitment to advancing industrial and technological skills in Nigeria.
Commitment to Technical Skill Transfer
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Peer Lubasch, emphasized the company’s dedication to equipping Nigerian youths with practical skills. He described the three-in-one event as a reflection of the company’s resolve to enhance employability and self-reliance among Nigerian youth.
Lubasch noted that the 30 graduating trainees had completed rigorous training in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electrical works, mechanical repairs, and auto diagnostics. He welcomed the 40 new intakes, encouraging them to view the programme as a steppingstone towards a thriving career in the evolving technical landscape.
Institutionalizing Vocational Training
With the launch of the Julius Berger Vocational Skills Academy, the company aims to formalize vocational training by providing hands-on practical learning, industry-relevant knowledge, and professional certification. According to Lubasch, the academy will play a crucial role in bridging Nigeria’s technical skills gap and fostering sustainable development in the vocational sector.
Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita, the Director of Administration, commended the contributions of the Board Chairman, Mutiu Sunmonu, and Dr. Lubasch in driving skills development within the company. He acknowledged their leadership in shaping the company’s impact on Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
Encouraging Gender Inclusivity
While addressing the graduates, Sunmonu highlighted the importance of technical skills in driving economic and infrastructural development. He urged the trainees to remain diligent, trustworthy, and open-minded as they advance in their careers.
Sunmonu also emphasized the need for greater female participation in vocational training, stating, “Women must be part of this initiative. Diverse perspectives drive innovation, and we look forward to graduating many female trainees.”
Empowering youth with technical skills is not just an investment in individuals; it is a commitment to Nigeria’s industrial future.” – Dr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
Impact of the Programme
The Julius Berger Vocational Skills Programme, a corporate social responsibility initiative, provides technical training and certification to enhance employability and socio-economic growth. The 10-month curriculum covers key areas such as auto mechanics, battery services, vulcanizing, wheel balancing, and auto diagnostics.
Targeting Abuja residents with a school-leaving certificate, including women and persons with disabilities, the programme aims to empower individuals with critical technical expertise. As part of their graduation, trainees received professional work tools, including mechanical toolboxes, hydraulic jacks, auto-diagnostic tools, portable compressors, and tyre kits.
The event concluded with an impressive project presentation by the graduating class, earning praise from instructors and guests. Julius Berger’s commitment to skills development remains a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s youth, equipping them with the necessary skills to contribute to the nation’s industrial growth and self-sufficiency.
