By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
In view of its commitment at ensuring the success of the Shade Tree Youth Empowerment Initiative (STYEI), the Peugeot Foundation has doled out 80,000 euros as the project is launched in Kaduna.
The Chairman Board of Trustees member, Engineer Otis Anyayeaji disclosed this during the official launch at the Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria (PAN) factory in Kaduna.
He said that though initially when contacted to serve as the board’s chairman, he expressed reservations untill he understood it was not a scheme meant at promoting only Peugeot.
“I expressed fears that since PAN was spear heading this, it would be limited to only Peugeot but once the issue of brand was settled, I didn’t hesitate to accept being member of board,” he said.
He explained that Nigeria is confronted with dearth of skills among auto mechanics.
“When we consider huge financial resources and time wastage as a result of road side mechanics. We can’t neglect them, but create a structured growth that will see them key into the project. Many from Plateau State came to learn and have been successful. Same with Kano State. We expect other states to key into the programme.
“The programme designed and built along entrepreneurship.
“Working tools and enhancing knowledge, work ethics and standardizing services.
I am delighted at the coincidence of this event and something that happened when I was taking over as president of NSE in 2016,” he added.
The BOT Chairman said that the programme though bold and ambitious, the reward is huge.
“Project of this scope requires funding,” he said.
On behalf of the board members, he pledged to maintain high level of governance responsibility.
PAN General Manager Strategy and Marketing, Mr. Bawo Omagbetse said STYEI a nationwide programme.
“We would work with several partners, committed to reducing poverty and empowering Nigerian youth.
“The way it is structured, initial staffing of each STYEI workshop can’t be less than 10.
“Auto industry is sophisticated once it grows and develops there are other industries that revolve around it.
“The trust fund will make the trainees own businesses. Besides salaries their workers will be earning, they will be making profits.
“We will train them and setup a styled garage for them to begin business immediately,” he assured.
