Highlighting the importance of skills acquisition for self-reliance as a means to alleviate poverty, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria recently underscored the need for youths to acquire practical vocational skills.
Addressing the issue, the bishops, through their NGO Caritas Nigeria, delivered a message at Orun Ekiti in the Ise Orun Local Government Area of Ekiti State during a ceremony honoring the graduation of 350 individuals trained in various vocations such as cosmetology, barbing, hairdressing, tailoring, catering, phone repair, and carpentry. The event also included the distribution of essential kits to the graduates.
Prior to this event, Caritas had also presented kits to another group of 350 graduates in Iluomoba Ekiti in the Gbonyin Local Government area.
The Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, emphasized the importance of exploring avenues for self-sustainability rather than relying solely on formal employment opportunities. He urged individuals to consider their own capabilities and talents in order to generate income, rather than solely depending on governmental support in a society where unemployment is prevalent.
Representing the bishop, Catholic priest Rev Father Francis Alade reiterated that the initiative by Caritas was not a temporary solution but a sustainable measure aimed at poverty alleviation.
Alade stated, “Many individuals in our society are unemployed and often criticize the government. However, it is essential for people to consider their own capabilities and resources. While government support is necessary, individuals must also take the initiative to improve their circumstances.”
Bishop Ajakaye encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the acquired skills and equipment effectively to enhance their livelihoods, and further advised on the importance of passing on knowledge to others in order to foster a more prosperous society.
Speaking on behalf of Caritas Nigeria, Senior Advisor on Humanitarian Services Friday Alhassan highlighted that the project, named “Building Sustainable Livelihood in Vibrant Communities,” aims to invest in the future success of individuals, communities, and the nation at large.