Elijah Okwu Oko-Udu, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Skill Development and Job Creation, has given young people in the state an assignment to pursue worthwhile endeavors that will benefit both the community at large and themselves by bringing them success and dignity.
During the flag-off skill acquisition training and empowerment program organized by the ministry in partnership with BERWO, the governor’s wife’s pet project, Oko-Udu made the call, saying that young people should take advantage of the various acquisition training programs offered by Governor Francis Nwifuru in order to become self-sufficient and create jobs.
The state governor’s wife, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, officially opened the program, “A Pathway to Improving Quality of Life,” on Saturday at the Pastoral Center in Abakaliki.
The commissioner, who highlighted the importance of the programme, emphasised the need to train youths in various skills to equip them for opportunities to be self-sufficient.
“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.
Oko-Udu urged the participants to be serious about the training, adding that the expectations at the end of the programme were for the participants to become masters in the skills that they had learned.
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.”