By Claribel Udah
One hundred youths from Onitsha and environs have graduated from a five-day intensive training in modern electrical installation and maintenance, receiving certificates and starter packs to help them turn their newly acquired skills into sustainable livelihoods.
The programme was organised by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with the Onitsha Advancement Foundation (OnAF) and concluded at Ime Obi, Onitsha, on Sept. 11.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, mni, commended NASENI for bringing the empowerment initiative to the city, urging the beneficiaries to put their training and equipment to productive use.
The monarch announced follow-up support through business management training by the Onitsha Leadership and Entrepreneurship Centre (OLEC), as well as monthly monitoring to encourage beneficiaries to use their starter packs for the purpose for which they were provided.
“This is how we move from skills to self reliance. Use what you have received to build your future and contribute to the development of Onitsha,” Achebe told the graduands.
Representing NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Coordinating Director, Planning and Business Development, Mrs. Nonyem Onyechi, encouraged the beneficiaries to regard their starter packs as “instruments of transformation” capable of improving livelihoods and supporting viable businesses.
The Programme Coordinator of OnAF, Dr. Rita Melifonwu, described the graduation as the beginning of a new phase for the beneficiaries, assuring that continued supervision would help ensure that the training translates into tangible economic opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the graduands, Unegbu Patrick expressed appreciation to NASENI and OnAF, saying the combination of practical training, certification and starter packs had given him the confidence to begin a business.
Also at the event were the Anambra State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba; Hon. Mimi Azikiwe; the President General of Onitsha, Mr. Osita; and the Mayor of Onitsha North, Hon. Emelie Ibekwe, among other dignitaries.
Claribel Udah is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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