Kano to tackle youth unemployment with horticulture, livestock institutes

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Saturday reopened the state’s Horticulture and Livestock Institutes, presenting 340 admission letters to students as part of an initiative to combat youth unemployment and equip young people with practical skills.

Yusuf’s spokesman, Sunusi Tofa, disclosed this in a statement released on Saturday.

Speaking in Bagauda, Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano, the governor highlighted the importance of these institutions in reducing youth redundancy by providing them with valuable skills to contribute positively to society.

The horticulture institute, in addition to its focus on environmental beautification and health, offers students pathways to earn a livelihood in the sector.

According to Yusuf, horticultural skills extend beyond financial benefits, as graduates will also contribute to the natural beauty and environmental health of their communities.

Meanwhile, the Livestock Institute is set to train 140 students in practical skills, including ram fattening, animal husbandry, and meat quality improvement, enhancing their capacity to contribute to Kano’s agricultural economy, the governor noted.

“The training will not only benefit them individually but will also contribute significantly to the agricultural economy of Kano State,” Yusuf stated.
Yusuf urged the students to “seize the opportunity,” explaining that the skills they acquire could transform their lives and those of their families.

He cited the success of previous graduates, now recognised by the federal government for achievements in dairy production, as an example of how such training can lead to enduring economic empowerment.

The governor expressed disappointment over the previous administration’s closure of the institutes, a decision he regarded as a setback to youth development.

However, he assured that his administration is committed to expanding opportunities for young people in the state, laying a foundation for a better society.

In line with this policy, “the government has provided essential infrastructure to support students’ learning, including accommodation, a reliable water system, and solar energy to ensure a conducive environment,” Governor Yusuf stressed.

The Emir of Rano, Autan Bawo, Alhaji Muhammad Isa Umar, praised Governor Yusuf’s efforts, viewing the revival of these institutions as part of his plan to position Kano as a model state.

Directors of the institutes, Dr. Jazuli Muhammad Bichi for Horticulture and Dr. Aliyu Ahmad Nuhu for Livestock, pledged to work towards achieving the centres’ objectives.

The Chairman of Bebeji Local Government Area, Dr. Alasan Salisu, expressed support for the reopening of the training institutes, stressing that the revived institutions would promote economic growth among the youth.

One of the students, Nazifi Ahmad Gera, expressed gratitude on behalf of his peers, noting that the reopening of the institute would positively impact their future.