No fewer than 170 women and youths from the Ondo Central senatorial district of Ondo State benefitted from the entrepreneurial skill acquisition training facilitated by the Senator representing the district, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire.
Speaking during the flag-off of the three-day programme, Adegbonmire disclosed that the skill acquisition programme for fresh graduates was put together by him in conjunction with the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS)
He said the initiative became necessary to help people develop valuable skills and values and to promote economic growth.
The lawmaker said apart from this, the skill acquisition programme will help to equip participants with skills so they can become self-employed, saying it’s unrealistic to expect the government to employ everyone.
Adegbonmire explained that 100 graduates will be trained in vital ICT skills, including CCTV and solar-powered inverter installation, while 70 women will gain valuable knowledge and tools for the palm oil processing value chain to strengthen their economic independence.
He charged the beneficiaries across the six council areas to make judicious use of the opportunity.
He said “We need to equip people with skills so they can become self-employed. it’s unrealistic to expect the government—whether federal, state, or local—to employ everyone.
“There’s a misconception in Nigeria where people expect the government to be the primary employer, and when we talk about unemployment, they think the solution lies solely with government jobs.
“To truly address unemployment, we need to ensure people acquire skills that empower them to work independently.
” This programme aims to provide such skills so that individuals can become self-employed, thereby significantly reducing the unemployment rate in Nigeria.
” That’s my motivation, and I plan to continue with this initiative.
“Additionally, education isn’t just about getting degrees; it’s about gaining the ability to fend for yourself.
“By equipping people with practical skills, we help them to be self-reliant. This, to me, is the essence of being truly educated.
Adegbonmire, who said that “it’s unrealistic for us, after providing these skills, to track and manage each individual, to have engaged consultants who will assess the program’s impact at its conclusion.
The consultants—Energy Impact Consultant, Engineer Ayodele Adesina—said that the empowerment programme the lawmaker was ” a promise kept and a testament to the senator’s unwavering commitment to progress.
Adesina noted that “Senator Adegbonmire’s dedication to education and community growth has set a benchmark for impactful leadership.
“His Back to School initiative has not only promoted academic excellence but also eased the financial strain on families across Ondo State.
“By providing essential educational tools—laptops, notebooks, and projectors—and covering the cost of UTME/JAMB forms for over 300 students, the senator has ensured equitable access to higher education.
“These initiatives exemplify his vision to go beyond education and reach into the fabric of our economy and grassroots society.
“This holistic approach reflects his determination to support everyone, from young graduates to artisans and women, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.
“Today, we move forward with this vision by launching the next phase of skill acquisition and empowerment.
“100 fresh graduates will receive training in vital ICT skills, including CCTV and solar-powered inverter installation.
” Similarly, 70 women will gain valuable knowledge and tools for the palm oil processing value chain, bolstering their trades and strengthening their economic independence. This programme is more than just another.
“Together, let us forge ahead, transforming the lives of our youths and women and uplifting the very foundation of a thriving Nigeria.
“I urge all participants to engage wholeheartedly in this programme, harness the knowledge and resources provided, and continue to drive the spirit of progress and unity within their communities.”
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