Julius Berger Graduates Vocational Trainees, Opens Skills Academy

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the country’s leading engineering and construction firm, recently graduated the first batch of trainees from its Vocational Skills Support Programme in Abuja.

The ceremony also commemorated the onboarding of 40 new trainees and the official launch of the Julius Berger Vocational Skills Academy.

The event, described as a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s industrial and technological advancement, drew representatives from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), who praised the company’s vision.

In his speech, Dr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, emphasised the company’s commitment to transferring critical technical skills to support Nigeria’s industrial growth.

He cited the three-in-one event as evidence of Julius Berger’s dedication to providing Nigerian youths with practical skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

The 30 trainees who graduated studied carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electrical work, mechanical repairs, and automotive diagnostics.

Lubasch welcomed the 40 new students and encouraged them to see the training as a way to thrive in the changing technological landscape.

The newly established Julius Berger Vocational Skills Academy aims to institutionalise vocational training by offering hands-on experience, industry-relevant knowledge, and professional certifications.

“With this launch, Julius Berger strengthens its role in closing Nigeria’s technical skills gap and advancing the country’s vocational sector,” Lubasch said.

Alh. Dr. Abdulaziz, Director of Administration, praised Board Chairman Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, and Dr. Lubasch for their efforts to promote skill development

. He praised their leadership and vision, which have greatly influenced the company’s impact on Nigeria’s industrial landscape.

Sunmonu, speaking to the graduates, emphasised the importance of technical skills in driving economic and infrastructure development.

He urged the trainees to be diligent, trustworthy, and open-minded as they begin their professional journeys.

Sunmonu emphasised the importance of increasing women’s participation in vocational programs to promote gender inclusivity.

“Women must take part in this initiative. Diverse perspectives drive innovation, and we are excited to graduate many female trainees,” he said.

The Julius Berger Vocational Skills Programme is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative that provides technical training and certification to Nigerian youths in order to improve their employability and socioeconomic advancement.

The 10-month curriculum covers essential topics such as auto mechanics, battery services, vulcanising, wheel balancing, and auto diagnostics.

The programme is aimed at Abuja residents with a school-leaving certificate, including women and people with disabilities (PWDs) seeking technical expertise.

At the ceremony, the graduates were given professional work tools such as mechanical toolboxes, hydraulic jacks, auto-diagnostic tools, portable compressors and tyre kits.

The event concluded with the graduating class’s impressive project presentation, which earned praise from both instructors and guests.