Vocational training of youth and women, facilitated by initiatives like the Youth Entrepreneurship Development and Empowerment Scheme (YEDES) by JDPCI Abuja with funding support from the Catholic Relief Services CRS, is critical for national growth and economic empowerment for several reasons.

Firstly, vocational training equips individuals, particularly youth and women, with practical skills that are in demand in the job market. This increases their employability and reduces unemployment rates, thereby contributing to overall economic growth.

Secondly, by focusing on youth in the FCT, vocational training addresses the demographic dividend by harnessing the potential of the youthful population. Empowering young people with skills enables them to become productive contributors to the economy rather than being dependent on social support systems.

Moreover, vocational training enhances entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities. By fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance, it stimulates small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which are essential for economic diversification and resilience.

Additionally, empowering women through vocational training not only improves their economic status but also promotes gender equality and social inclusion. When women have access to skills training and entrepreneurship opportunities, they contribute to household income and decision-making processes, leading to broader societal benefits.

Overall, vocational training of youth and women is critical for national growth as it builds human capital, fosters entrepreneurship, reduces poverty, and promotes social inclusion, all of which are essential elements for sustainable development and economic empowerment.

JDPCI Abuja is pleased to collaborate with CRS on a revolving and revolutionary vocational training scheme for our youths in FCT.