Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has secured key partnerships with Belarus to advance technology education, modernise security operations, and boost agricultural productivity. During a four-day working visit to Minsk, the governor met with top Belarusian officials and signed multiple agreements covering education, defence, agriculture, and information technology.
A highlight of the visit was a tour of Hi-Tech Park in Minsk, one of Eastern Europe’s leading technology hubs. The park is known for its supportive legal framework, investor-friendly policies, and strong talent pipeline, attracting global tech companies and driving economic growth and youth employment. Governor Radda explored how similar initiatives could be adapted to strengthen Katsina’s emerging technology ecosystem, focusing on technology transfer, research collaborations, education partnerships, and a policy environment that encourages innovation and investment.
The governor also visited Beltech Export Company, a premier ICT centre, where he examined opportunities for training Katsina youths in advanced computer technologies. Officials highlighted past trainees who have become successful tech entrepreneurs and dollar billionaires, showcasing the potential of structured technical education. Governor Radda emphasized the alignment of these engagements with his administration’s “Building Your Future” agenda, aimed at creating jobs, expanding digital skills, and supporting young entrepreneurs in Katsina.
In discussions with the Belarus Minister of Education, Radda secured scholarships for Katsina youths in artificial intelligence, robotics, agricultural engineering, and drone technology. Plans were also agreed upon for Training of Trainers programs, allowing instructors from Katsina institutions, including the Youth Craft Village, to acquire advanced skills at innovation centres in Minsk. “Developing local talent is critical for powering emerging industries and creating sustainable economic opportunities,” Governor Radda said.
The governor’s itinerary included visits to the Minsk Security Institute, the Centre for Border Security and Special Forces Training Facility, and the State Authority for Military Industry. At the Ministry of Defence, he reached agreements for training the Katsina Community Watch Corps and upgrading their security equipment. He was shown special forces training grounds where KCWC personnel will receive advanced instruction in counter-insurgency and border security.
At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Governor Radda and his delegation met H.E. Sergey Lukashevich, First Deputy Minister, securing youth visa access, technology transfer, and other bilateral cooperation opportunities. At the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, he negotiated for the modernisation of Katsina’s agricultural equipment, adoption of technology-driven farming practices, and provision of advanced cattle breeds to enhance livestock productivity.
Governor Radda described the visit as a strategic move to build a knowledge-based economy in Katsina, driven by skills, technology, and global competitiveness. The state delegation included the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mua’zu; Executive Director of the Katsina State Development Management Board, Ruqayya Hamza Usman; Director-General of the Directorate of ICT, Naufal Ahmed; and Coordinator of the Agricultural Development Unit, Dr Suleiman Umar, among other officials.
