Ongoing Construction of Public Schools Across Taraba Engages Over 2,000 Indigenous Artisans, Professionals

The ongoing construction of public schools across Taraba State have created job opportunities for more than 2,000 indigenous artisans and professionals, further boosting local economic activities and empowering skilled workers.

The 2,000 artisans and professionals were engaged under the Taraba Young Professional Scheme  TYPS an  initiative, spearheaded by the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas to train, empower and transfer new hydrofoam building knowledge to young people in the state.

As part of  Governor Agbu Kefas's free education policy, the government has approved the construction of 60 schools aimed at transforming infrastructure in basic and secondary schools. The project covers the construction of new classroom blocks and  installation of modern learning facilities across the 16 local government areas.

Speaking to reporters in Jalingo, TYPS Project Manager Mr Joseph Donald  disclosed that over 2,000 local workers — including engineers, architects, masons, carpenters and welders — have been actively engaged in the various school projects. He described the development as a deliberate policy by the government to prioritize local content and ensure that Tarabans benefit directly from public investments.

"This administration is committed to not just improving the quality of education, but also stimulating the local economy. Engaging our indigenous artisans and professionals has helped create jobs and build community ownership of these projects," Donald said.

He noted that apart from employment generation, the inclusion of local professionals has also helped transfer of skills and knowledge to young people in the state.  reduced project costs, ensured faster implementation, and promoted accountability.

He said construction is currently at various level across the 16 local governments. " We are working in all the local governments, from brick production to the main construction, serious work continue to progress across the state, the impact is already being felt — not just in improved school environments, but in increased economic activity in host communities, as artisans, suppliers, and small business owners all benefit from the construction boom.

One of the project site supervisors, Musa Danladi, praised the government's effort for what he described as "the most inclusive and impactful construction initiative" in the state's recent history.

"We feel proud to be part of rebuilding the future of Taraba. These are our communities, and it means a lot that the government trusts us with this responsibility," he said.

The school construction effort aligns with Governor Kefas' declaration of a state of emergency on education and his administration's "Free and Compulsory Basic Education" policy, which aims to improve access, quality, and equity in the education sector.