Empowering women and youths towards financial independence, Ogun State government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has successfully provided training to over 300 women in various vocational skills.
As part of this initiative, the state government recently distributed sewing machines, locally-made ovens, pedicure boxes, stoning machines, and industrial burners to the trained women, who received training in fields like fashion designing, catering, cosmetology, and beauty care.
Notably, this effort has already impacted more than 20,000 individuals, as the government continues to combat poverty and unemployment within the state.
During the graduation and tool distribution ceremony at the Women Development Centre in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, highlighted the importance of these newly acquired skills for personal and entrepreneurial growth.
Adeleye emphasized the value of vocational training as a means of livelihood and commended the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun for their unwavering support in empowering women economically.
Addressing the graduands, Mrs. Ayotunde Lawal, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, encouraged the women to utilize their skills effectively to enhance their career prospects and reduce reliance on traditional employment.
Furthermore, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole, stressed the necessity of equipping youths with practical and marketable skills that contribute to the growth of the local economy.
Barakat Adeniyi, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the state government for the training and support received, asserting that they are now better positioned to make significant contributions to the national economy.