By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa has disclosed the plan of the Ministry to create an online application for skilled workers.
He said the aim is to leverage on technology to make artisans more visible, accessible and efficient in delivering their services.
This was contained in a statement signed and issued by Director Press and Public Relations, Salisu Badamasi Haiba.
The Minister made this disclosure when he received the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Hon. Adamson Ayinde and his team on a courtesy visit yesterday in Abuja.
He explained that the digital platform to be named ‘Uber for Artisans’ will serve as an online market place where trained and certified artisans can connect with potential customers, adding the platform would enhance the earning potential of artisans and ensure that customers have access to skilled professionals for their construction needs.
“I believe that the Uber for Excel platform will be a game changer in the construction industry, as it will not only bridge a gap between supply and demand, but also promoting transparency and quality service delivery”, he hoped.
To this effect, He revealed that the Ministry has conceived the National Artisan Skill Acquisition Program (NASA) to address the shortage of skilled artisans in the construction industry and provide sustainable livelihoods for young Nigerians.
The Minister said the NASA program to be launched within the year aims to equip youths with construction-related skills such as plumbing, electrical works, masonry, carpentry, among others.
“These skills are not only essential for construction sector, but also contribute to the economic, overall economic development of our nation”, he added.
