One of the leading building and civil engineering firms, Megamound Investment Limited, has launched an artisan training initiative aimed at addressing the acute shortage of skilled construction workers threatening the delivery of housing and infrastructure projects across the country.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the beneficiaries of the Olumide Osunsina Youth Skills Training Programme organised by Olumide Osunsina Foundation (OOF) in Ibadan, the company’s Managing Director/CEO, Olumide Osunsina, said the decision to train artisans stems from a growing crisis in Nigeria’s building sector caused by the dearth of qualified masons, electricians, plumbers, and tilers, as well as solar and CCTV system installation.

The CEO, who was represented by his wife, Mrs Desiree Osunsina, an Executive Director, Megamound Investment Ltd, said the skill acquisition was founded to give back to society and empower the youths to be self-reliant and make an impact in society. The foundation trained about 45 artisans in various vocations, including solar and CCTV system installation.

Osunsina said: “It is a way of giving back to society. We found out that a lot of people who finished school can’t get jobs, and we decided to empower them with skills so that even if they don’t get jobs, they can use these skills to empower themselves. We give them start-up equipment free. We are encouraging youths to key into this.”

“Our mission is to provide underserved youths with access to education, technical, and vocational training that can unlock their full potential. Our vision is to become a benchmark for youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond. Beyond skills training, we also support the education of orphans and vulnerable children. Drawing from the founder’s experience in the construction industry, we’re expanding our training programmes to include trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry, with a vision to create employment pathways through Megamound.

He admonishes the graduates: “Your journey over the past six months has been a testament to your resilience, dedication, and hunger for growth. You embraced the process, overcame challenges, and today, you stand not just as graduates but as empowered individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to your communities and beyond.

We are incredibly proud of you,” Osunsina said.In his remarks, the Programme Manager of the foundation, Ayodeji Oriyomi, said the programme had significantly enhanced the ability of the programme beneficiaries to contribute positively to the society by improving their employability in sectors where their skills are needed, by fostering their entrepreneurial skills for self-employment and empowering them to become active and engaged citizens.

The guest speaker and Executive Director of MAYEIN, Ewa Orowale, urged the graduates to walk in kindness, live with integrity and lead with purpose.