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Elijah Okwu Oko-Udu, the Skill Development and Job Creation Commissioner in Ebonyi State, is motivating young people to embrace opportunities that cultivate their skills, enhance their well-being, and benefit society as a whole.
During the kickoff event for the skill acquisition training and empowerment program, a collaborative effort between the ministry and BERWO, Commissioner Oko-Udu emphasized the importance of youths participating in Governor Nwifuru’s initiatives, which aim to empower them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become self-reliant and successful.
The programme, themed “A Pathway to Improving Quality of Life,” was flagged off by the wife of the state governor, Mrs Uzoamaka Nwifuru, at the Pastoral Centre, Abakaliki, on Saturday.
Commissioner Oko-Udu accentuated the program’s importance, highlighting the need to arm youths with a range of skills that will enable them to capitalize on opportunities and become economically empowered.
“This programme is not merely an event; it is a deliberate commitment designed to empower our youth and ensure that they are equipped to seize the opportunities of the future. Through this initiative, we aim to foster an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish, driving economic growth and social stability in our state. It will equip our youth, women, and the internally displaced with the skills needed to thrive in various sectors. Whether it be in agriculture, technology, craftsmanship, or entrepreneurship, the training provided will open doors to new opportunities and foster a culture of self-reliance and resilience,” he said.
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The commissioner exhorted the participants to take the training seriously, stressing that the program’s success hinges on their ability to master the skills and become proficient experts by the end of the training.
Speaking directly to the participants, he said: “To the young men and women gathered here today, I urge you to embrace this rare opportunity with enthusiasm and determination. The skills you acquire through this programme will serve as tools to unlock your potential, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to your communities and broader society. Remember, the future belongs to those who prepare for it today. Your participation in this programme is not just an investment in your own future, but an investment in the future of Ebonyi State.”
He also added: “The impact of this initiative is expected to extend beyond individual empowerment. A skilled and empowered population contributes to the overall development of society. It reduces unemployment, alleviates poverty, and creates a more dynamic and robust economy. As more individuals gain skills and secure employment, we will witness a ripple effect of positive change across our communities.”
According to the commissioner, the 130 participants, hailing from various parts of the state, will embark on a comprehensive three-month training journey, acquiring diverse skills, with the program covering their accommodation and food expenses.
The commissioner elaborated that the comprehensive training program will encompass a range of practical skills, including tailoring, makeup artistry, shoemaking, culinary arts, and barbering, designed to empower participants with the tools and resources needed to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs upon graduation, complete with start-up capital and equipment.
