NELFUND to Launch Vocational Skills Loan Programme, Starting with Enugu in June
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has revealed plans to expand its loan scheme to include vocational and skills acquisition centres nationwide, with Enugu State as the pilot location. The initiative is set to commence within the next six to eight weeks (late June to mid-July).
Strategic Expansion of Education Financing
During a strategic engagement campaign in Enugu, NELFUND officials announced this significant expansion of their financial support programme. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of NELFUND, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting technical education across various vocational fields including fashion design.
“We’re working on it now and will have discussions with the executive governor and his team because we want to start here. The president has instructed we focus on areas where state governments are ready to work with us for quick implementation,” Sawyerr stated.
Why Enugu Was Chosen as Pilot State
Iyal Mustapha, NELFUND’s Executive Director of Operations, explained that Enugu was selected due to its exceptional vocational training infrastructure. During a tour of the Enugu Garments and Fashion Hub, Mustapha noted:
“We’ve assessed facilities in over 10 states, but Enugu stands out as one of the best. The state has excellent technical colleges and vocational centers that make it ideal for launching this initiative.”
How the Vocational Loan Scheme Works
The programme will feature:
- Online application portal for beneficiaries
- Coverage of training costs
- Upkeep stipends for participants
- Provision of tools upon completion
Mustapha explained: “The loan will cover training costs based on center proposals, plus institutional charges to support transportation. It’s a work in progress as we recognize the growing value of vocational skills nationwide.”
Enugu’s Readiness for Implementation
Arinze Chilo-Offiah, Special Adviser to the Enugu Governor on Digital Economy and MSMEs, confirmed the state’s preparedness:
“We’ve showcased our world-class facilities including 150 industrial sewing machines to demonstrate our readiness. Enugu can accommodate 300-500 trainees at our fashion hub and technical colleges.”
The NELFUND team inspected several institutions including the Institute of Management and Technology and Government Technical College, currently undergoing reconstruction.
Source: Nairametrics