On Thursday, 5th September 2024, ENGAUSA Global Tech Hub had the privilege of hosting a distinguished delegation from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Partnership for Learning for All in Nigeria (PLANE). The team was led by Mr. Ian Attfield, Senior Education Adviser at the British High Commission. Other members of the delegation included Dr. Mikailu Ibrahim, FCDO Education Adviser, and Dr. Gboyega Ilusanya, National Team Lead for PLANE. The two organizations developed a keen interest in visiting our innovation hub after listening to two compelling presentations, delivered in both Hausa and English sessions, by our CEO, Engr. Mustapha Habu Ringim, during the recently conducted KADA EduPACT International Summit. These presentations not only highlighted ENGAUSA’s impact but also showcased the uniqueness of its multilingual and hands-on approach to technical education, which makes cutting-edge skills more accessible to diverse communities.
During their visit, the delegation engaged directly with our students, listening to their stories and experiences in their own words. It was an opportunity for the guests to witness first-hand the transformation taking place through our programmes. Students shared how the skills they are learning, taught in relatable languages and through practical, hands-on methods, have opened doors of possibility that once seemed out of reach.
In his interaction with the trainees, Mr. Attfield emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant, practical skills. He reminded them that both the present and the future belong to those who continue to learn and adapt, noting that opportunities are not limited to university education alone. His words reinforced the value of ENGAUSA’s hands-on training methodology, and the mindset shift it brings about in learners.
Another highlight of the visit came from Dr. Mika’ilu Ibrahim. He remarked that what he witnessed at ENGAUSA was comparable to, and in some ways even more impactful than, what he had seen in Lagos. He attributed this to the uniqueness of ENGAUSA’s multilingual model, which makes technical training accessible and effective across diverse communities.
Dr. Ibrahim also reflected on the challenge of university graduates struggling to secure employment, a situation that has made him increasingly concerned about the future of his own children and of Nigeria’s youth more broadly. After observing ENGAUSA’s approach firsthand, he shared that this is precisely the kind of training young people need: developing practical, relevant skills alongside formal education. He expressed his determination to enroll his own son at ENGAUSA as he prepares for university, affirming his belief that this model offers young people a stronger foundation for success.
The CEO of ENGAUSA Global Tech Hub also presented the six-year impact of the Hub’s initiatives to the visitors. From his presentation, the delegation learned that over 7,000 trainees have graduated, and more than 700 startup companies have been incubated, with several others becoming self-employed or gaining employment in established companies. In addition, more than 2,300 scholarships have been awarded to less privileged learners, including Almajiris and out-of-school children, who would otherwise not have been able to afford training. These milestones stand as a powerful testament to the impact of combining mother tongue inclusion with practical, experiential learning, creating a model that breaks barriers and transforms communities.
“At ENGAUSA, we believe that skills, not certificates, are the true drivers of empowerment,” said Engr. Mustapha Habu Ringim, CEO of ENGAUSA Global Tech Hub. “By teaching in the mother tongue and combining it with practical, hands-on training, we are breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and giving every young person a chance to build a meaningful future.”
FCDO and PLANE further identified key areas of collaboration with ENGAUSA HUB to integrate Almajiri and out-of-school youth into its programmes, in alignment with accelerated and non-formal basic education initiatives. Mr. Attfield also observed that one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges is finding effective ways to harness existing State and Federal resources to support skills-based education, and he noted that ENGAUSA’s model provides a practical pathway toward this goal.
The visit was not only a recognition of the work already being done, but also a reminder of the responsibility to deepen impact, widen access, and ensure that every young person has a pathway to meaningful learning and livelihood, through inclusive language, hands-on training, and innovation-driven skills development. This alignment with FCDO and PLANE sets the stage for stronger partnerships and expanded opportunities to transform education and skills training across Nigeria.
For more information:
Website: www.EngausaHub.com.ng
Foundation: foundation.engausahub.com.ng
Phone (WhatsApp & Telegram): 07038224643
Email: [email protected]
