To foster skills acquisition and promote economic empowerment, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat, through its Department of Mass Education, has flagged off a one-week free holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training program.
The initiative is a collaborative venture of the Department of Mass Education, and two non-governmental organizations (NGOs), The Potter’s Wheel Foundation, and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS).
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo emphasized the importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship in today’s world, describing it as imperative for self reliance and empowerment.
He highlighted the commitment of FCT Administration (FCTA), led by FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, to championing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that the holiday initiative is a critical strategy for reducing unemployment and building resilience among Abuja residents through practical skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.
He commended the Department on the synergy between the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), noting that it will further empower FCT residents with skills and knowledge that lead to viable income-generating opportunities.
The Mandate Secretary urged participants to fully utilize the opportunity, network actively and apply themselves diligently to the various training sessions.
In her welcome address, Director, FCT Department of Mass Education, Dr Favour Edem-Nse, said the training aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs) and contributes significantly to reducing the number of out-of-school children, unskilled youths and unemployed women in the FCT.
She added that the Department’s goal is not just to train but to guide participants towards becoming self-sufficient and successful entrepreneurs, noting that the free training program is a manifestation of the Department’s broader vision of literacy and lifelong learning.
She revealed that the Department, in collaboration with both NGOs, will train them in hands-on sessions in the production of laundry soap,bleach, liquid soap, toilet and car wash, disinfectant production, making of air fresheners, snacks, among others, as well as in key entrepreneurship modules on bookkeeping and financial management, marketing and branding with social media management.
Dr Edem-Nse expressed gratitude to the Mandate Secretary and the management for the massive support of the life-changing opportunity program targeted at women,youths, children and other community residents to equip them with tools for economic self reliance.
The well-attended event which drew attendance from partner organizations, staff of the Department of Mass Education and enthusiastic participants, will run throughout the week with facilitators providing continued support beyond the training period.
