By Ebele Iyke Odili
The Anambra State Government has applauded the people of Oba for their proactive step towards youth empowerment through the establishment of a modern skills acquisition and training centre.
The commendation came during a well-attended fundraising event organized to support the Oba Ultra-Modern Multi-Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Centre, a project designed to equip youths with practical, technology-driven skills for self-reliance and global competitiveness.
Representing the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Engr. Michael Obiekwe, reaffirmed government’s commitment to youth-focused initiatives that promote skills acquisition, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
He commended the Oba community for aligning with the state government’s vision of building a skilled and productive youth population, noting that such community-driven efforts complement ongoing government programmes.
Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Idemili South Local Government Area, Amaka Obi, emphasized the urgent need for youths to embrace skills acquisition in today’s evolving world.
She noted that certificates alone are no longer sufficient to guarantee success, stressing that skills have become the most critical asset for securing the future of young people.
“In today’s world, everything revolves around technology. This initiative is not just about acquiring skills, but about embracing innovation, including Artificial Intelligence, which is shaping the future,” she said.
The Mayor further explained that the project aligns with the youth-focused policies of the Soludo administration, particularly the One Youth, Two Skills initiative aimed at making Anambra youths productive and globally competitive.
She called on indigenes of Oba to key into the programme, expressing confidence that no youth in the community would remain unemployed or unproductive.
“With this initiative, our youths will not only be employable at home but also productive abroad,” she added.
Also speaking, the Director, Ministry of Industry and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee of the project, Mrs. Eboh-Nwosu J. N., appreciated all dignitaries and stakeholders present for their support and commitment towards the realization of the centre.
She specifically commended the Anambra State Government for creating an enabling environment that has made such impactful community-driven projects possible in Oba, noting that collaboration between government and communities remains key to sustainable development.
The proposed centre will offer training in over 42 different skills, covering vocational, technical, and digital fields, with strong emphasis on emerging technologies.
The programme also features a sustainability model where beneficiaries who secure employment will contribute a percentage of their earnings to support the training of others.
Describing human capital as the most valuable investment, stakeholders reiterated that the initiative represents a long-term strategy for economic growth and social stability.
The project is being driven by the visionary leadership of the Traditional Ruler of Oba, HRM, Igwe Engr. Augustine C. Emelobe, whose commitment to youth development has translated into impactful community advancement initiatives.
The Oba Ultra-Modern Multi-Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Centre, when completed, is expected to serve as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and capacity building, further strengthening Anambra State’s position as a leader in human capital development.
Ebele is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
