Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has shared how his welding and engineering skills earned him a job in the United States in the 1980s without presenting any certificates.
Speaking at the inaugural Engr. Abdullahi Sule Colloquium in Lafia, themed “Technological-Driven Entrepreneurship as a Panacea for Unemployment and Catalyst for Economic Growth and Development”, the governor emphasized the importance of skill-based education over mere certifications.
Governor Sule recounted his journey from Government Technical College, Bukuru to Indiana University, USA, where he worked as a welder at night while studying during the day.
“When I got my first job after graduation, nobody asked for my certificates. They were only interested in my skills and ability to do the job,” he said.
He explained that his administration’s investment in a state-of-the-art skills acquisition center in Nasarawa was inspired by his personal experience, adding that the government plans to train both youths and retirees with technical skills for self-employment.
Guest speaker Jelani Aliyu, an international automotive designer, urged African nations to embrace technological advancements for economic growth, while other speakers, including education leaders, called on youths to focus on practical skills to reduce unemployment and corruption.