Project GEST (Girls Entrepreneurship and Skills Training) is one of the programmes organised by the Girl Child Empowerment Office. The Project is aimed at providing Deltan girls between the ages of 18 and 30 years with training in various skills as well as Life Building Skills, Business and Entrepreneurial Skills. Trainees who successfully conclude their training will also receive Starter Packs and shop payment subsidies with which they can start their businesses. Selection processes are transparent and accessible to all who are eligible. The pilot phase targeted young girls who already have some experience in their preferred skill areas. The aim in the long run is to create a group of skilled and determined young female SME operators who will turn the State’s and country’s economies around.

Following a rigorous selection process across the 25 LGAs of the State, 450 successful beneficiaries emerged as GEST pilot trainees. Trainees were paired with experienced trainers for a 12 weeks internship. A total of 443 trainees graduated and received their starter packs. Successful GEST Graduate Trainees were also provided with N100, 000 shop subsidies each to set up their businesses. A good number of GEST trainees have already started their businesses and are on their way to becoming successful entrepreneurs.