The Ogun State government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has successfully trained over 300 women in a variety of vocational skills with the aim of promoting financial independence among women and youths.
During a recent event at the Women Development Centre in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, the state government distributed sewing machines, locally made ovens, pedicure boxes, stoning machines, and industrial burners to the trained women.
The women were trained in skills such as fashion designing, catering, cosmetology, and beauty care, among others. The government highlighted that more than 20,000 individuals have already benefited from this scheme, which targets poverty alleviation and reducing unemployment in the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, emphasized the importance of vocational skills as a tool for personal advancement and the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises. She stressed the significance of continuous learning and skill improvement to stay relevant in the ever-evolving job market.
Hon. Adijat Adeleye mentioned that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration has been steadfast in empowering women economically through initiatives like ‘Oko’wo Dapo’. She encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills confidently in entrepreneurial ventures that foster innovation.
In her remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Ayotunde Lawal, expressed the government’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of youths and women through vocational training. She urged the graduates to leverage their skills to create career opportunities, promote entrepreneurship, and boost productivity.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole, emphasized the program’s focus on equipping trainees with practical and marketable skills essential for the local economy’s growth. She highlighted the importance of vocational training in instilling self-reliance and confidence in unemployed youths.
In a show of gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, Barakat Adeniyi appreciated the state government for the training and provision of necessary working tools, acknowledging that they are now better equipped to make meaningful contributions to the country’s economy.