Launch of the Centre of Practical Skills(CoPS) at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu State
HURRAY!!! Centre of Practical Skills(CoPS) is open in Enugu state
We are excited to inform you that our Training Centre is set and has commenced operations in the European Business Park.
The Centre of Practical Skills (CoPS) which is implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) provides vocational training for Nigerian youth in directly marketable skills through a dual education approach. CoPS offers young people the opportunity to complete certification training and get the reward of practical experience by working at the European Business Park in Enugu State, Nigeria. The 8-month training certificate course, affiliated with Godfrey Okoye University will prepare outstanding youths for jobs with European companies, operating in Nigeria. Currently, this dual-training course equips young people with practical skills in the construction sector in plumbing, electrical installations, and masonry.
The grand opening of CoPS was a unique one that began on Thursday, 24th November 2022 with a press tour of the Centre and the European Business park featuring Ten(10) journalists from around the world.
The glamorous event continued on Friday, 25th November 2022 at 01:30 pm with the Nigerian, Austrian and German National Anthems and opening prayer. Next was welcome speeches from Rev. Prof. Dr Christian Anieke, Vice Chancellor, Godfrey Okoye University; Dr Michael Spindelegger, Director General, ICMPD; Prof. Abubakar Rasheed, Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission; H.E. Mr Thomas Schlesinger, Ambassador of Austria, Nigeria; Mr Markus Wagner, Country Director, GIZ; Mr Martin Huth, Deputy Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, Nigeria; Barrister Dr Peter Mbah, Nigeria.
In his brief speech, the ICMPD Director General Michael Spindelegger, who spoke on the key benefits of the initiative, said: ” A high and professional level of training helps all parties: people can find skilled workers, sustainable knowledge transfer takes place and companies have well-skilled workers available.”
The Director General added: “For us, it’s about respectful cooperation on an equal footing from which all parties benefit – the people, the country and the companies.”
Spindelegger also said: ” Many European companies see the opportunities that exist in many African markets. Usually, only the really big ones dare to take the step. That is why we have created the conditions so that SMEs can establish themselves in a secure and stable environment.”
He further explained: “Because of these opportunities, many companies are willing to contribute to the training of workers they will soon employ. On this basis, they can then participate in Nigeria’s growing and yet unpenetrated market of over 220 million people.”
From 2024 onwards, he said that the aim would be to expand the training programme, to include building services, IT, food processing, textiles and tourism, to offer the corresponding training positions and to attract new companies.
The highlight of the event was the Cutting the Silk Band at the CoPS Academy Building and the Visit to the European Business Park and Activities with CoPS Trainees, Teachers and Young Entrepreneurs.
Pictures below
