Challenge: With 31.4% of Nigeria’s youth disengaged from education, employment, or training, the need for skill development in promising sectors like fashion became evident. This led to the collaboration between USADF and LSETF to address youth unemployment.
Action: MercDees Ventures, utilizing an $85k grant from USADF and LSETF with technical assistance by Diamond Development Initiatives (DDI), launched a comprehensive training program for 150 students, focusing on garment production, sewing machine use, garment design, fabrics, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Result: The initiative saw 85% female participation, with 89% of trainees successfully placed in internships or employment, marking a significant uplift in their income levels and market competitiveness. This success story highlights the transformative impact of targeted vocational training on youth employability and income generation in Nigeria.