..holds ONDEA Summit

Ondo State Government is set to bolster skill acquisition among young people with the construction of two new model technical schools, aiming to foster entrepreneurship. The stae Governor, Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa unveiled this plan during the Ondo State Entrepreneurship Summit in Akure.

He emphasized the need for technical skills in today’s global economy to empower youths as solution providers and entrepreneurs.

According to him, the 2024 budget allocates resources for these new institutions, supplementing the existing technical colleges across the state.

Additionally, Governor Aiyedatiwa kickstarted the distribution of tricycles to farmers, enhancing transportation of agricultural produce and food security.

Addressing the youth at the summit, the Governor highlighted the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth, stressing the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector to unlock the state’s economic potential.

He announced an increase in the number of beneficiaries of grants for young entrepreneurs, doubling the empowerment funds and expanding support for innovative business ideas through initiatives like ‘ONDEA my IDEA.’

Furthermore, winners of this initiative will receive substantial cash grants and business support packages.

Aiyedatiwa praised the Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) for its impactful initiatives, which have transformed numerous lives and businesses through innovation and empowerment.

Notably, the state is poised to host the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, a significant event expected to attract global leaders and entrepreneurs during the Global Entrepreneurship Week in November.

The Governor expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged support to showcase Ondo State’s innovative brilliance on a global stage.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship and CEO of ONDEA, Mr. Summy Smart, reported that the agency had trained and empowered over 600 individuals in the grassroots community during the first quarter of the year, with some receiving certificates at the summit.