Applications Now Open: IDEAS-TVET Initiative 2026 Offers Free Skills Training, ₦22,500 Monthly Stipend and Start-up Kits
Applications are now open for the IDEAS-TVET Initiative, a Federal Government-backed skills development programme that provides young Nigerians with free vocational and technical training, monthly financial support, and industry internship opportunities.
The initiative is implemented by the Federal Ministry of Education under the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Project, with support from the World Bank.
Following the success of previous cohorts, the programme is expanding its reach, with plans to train at least 40,000 Nigerians across the country in the latest intake.
Programme Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | IDEAS-TVET Initiative Cohort 3 (2026) |
| Organiser | Federal Ministry of Education |
| Supporting Partner | World Bank |
| Target Applicants | Young Nigerians interested in vocational and technical skills |
| Training Duration | 6 Months |
| Training Structure | 3 Months Practical Training + 3 Months Industry Internship |
| Monthly Stipend | ₦22,500 |
| Additional Benefits | Free training, Certification, Start-up Kits, Industry Internship |
| Expected Beneficiaries | At least 40,000 Nigerians |
| Application Status | Applications Now Open |
About the IDEAS-TVET Initiative
The IDEAS-TVET Initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system by equipping young people with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Rather than focusing only on classroom learning, the programme combines hands-on training with workplace experience to prepare participants for employment or self-employment.
The initiative also supports the government’s broader objective of reducing unemployment and improving productivity through skills development.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to young Nigerians who are interested in acquiring practical vocational or technical skills that can improve their career prospects or enable them to start their own businesses.
It is suitable for individuals who want to:
- Learn a marketable skill
- Improve their employability
- Gain practical industry experience
- Start or expand a small business
- Build a sustainable source of income
Applicants from all states of the federation can register and participate through approved training centres closest to them.
Training Structure
The programme runs for six months, divided into two phases:
Phase One: Practical Skills Training
Participants will spend the first three months receiving intensive practical instruction in their chosen vocational or technical field.
Phase Two: Industry Internship
The final three months will involve placement with industry partners, allowing trainees to gain real-world experience and apply the skills learned during training.
This combination of classroom practice and workplace exposure is intended to improve participants’ readiness for the labour market.
Benefits for Successful Applicants
Selected participants will receive several forms of support throughout the programme, including:
- Free vocational and technical training
- ₦22,500 monthly stipend to assist with transportation and welfare expenses
- Industry internship opportunities
- Certificate upon successful completion
- Start-up kits to support post-training activities
- Exposure to practical, industry-focused learning
Programme Objectives
The IDEAS Project seeks to improve skills acquisition in Nigeria by creating stronger links between training institutions and industry needs.
By developing a workforce equipped with practical competencies, the initiative aims to:
- Enhance employment opportunities
- Support entrepreneurship and small business development
- Increase productivity across key sectors
- Improve income generation for young Nigerians
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete their registration through the official IDEAS Project application portal:
Official Application Portal: https://ideasproject.gov.ng
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure that all information provided during registration is accurate.
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