Gov. Kefas Approves Establishment of Works Training School in Taraba

In a strategic move to enhance professionalism and service delivery in the construction sector, Governor Agbu Kefas has approved the establishment of a Works Training School in Taraba State.

The development was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Hajiya Hadiza Bello Yero, during a two-day capacity-building workshop organized by the Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB), Taraba State Chapter. The workshop took place at the Taraba State Polytechnic, Suntai, Jalingo Campus.

Speaking at the event themed "Digital Challenges for Professionals and Non-Professionals in the Built Environment: Harnessing the Diversity for a Safer and More Secure Built Environment," Hajiya Yero encouraged participants to develop a genuine passion for the building profession.

"This initiative is meant to impart knowledge to the younger generation. You must be passionate about the profession rather than focusing solely on monetary gains. The more you engage, the more proficient you become. With passion, success and financial rewards will follow—people will seek your expertise wherever you are," she stated.

Also present at the event, the Rector of Taraba State Polytechnic, Dr. Agbu Amos Danlami, expressed gratitude to the NIOB for choosing the Polytechnic as the venue for the workshop. He praised the initiative, noting its relevance to current challenges facing the construction industry.

The workshop marks the first of its kind in Taraba State and aims to train both professionals and non-professionals in the built environment. It brings together stakeholders to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and promote best practices for safer and more efficient construction standards.

Opening the workshop, Chairman of the NIOB Taraba Chapter, Dr. Ayuba Ibrahim Abarshi, urged attendees to fully participate in the sessions and make the most of the learning opportunities. He also encouraged unregistered participants to complete their registration to benefit fully from the training.

Dr. Abarshi further called on the Executive Governor to facilitate the domestication of the National Building Code in Taraba State. He emphasized that the code would empower certified professionals to regulate construction practices, reduce incidents of building collapse, and ensure public safety.

In his keynote address, Dr. Paul Raymond underscored the vital role of professional builders and the relevance of the Nigeria Institute of Building. He stressed the need to uphold professional standards, prioritize safety, and deliver quality across all sectors of the construction industry.

The Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Hadiza Bello Yero, reiterated the state's commitment to supporting such capacity-building initiatives. She applauded the NIOB Taraba Chapter for organizing the event and emphasized the importance of continuous professional development to meet the demands of an evolving built environment.