By Moses Nwite, Abakaliki
The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has initiated the distribution of starter packs to beneficiaries of the School-On-Wheels (SOW) program, which falls under the vocational skills department.
This action is part of the state government’s strategic efforts to combat unemployment and address youth restiveness.
Malam Abubakar Nuhu, the Director-General of the NDE, made this announcement while distributing the starter packs to the beneficiaries in Abakaliki, the capital city of Ebonyi State.
In representation of the Director-General, Don Anaba, the NDE State Coordinator, highlighted that “School-On-Wheels (SOW) is an invaluable skills training scheme that utilizes mobile training workshops or caravans to bring skills development opportunities to unemployed school leavers and other interested individuals residing in rural areas. The objective is to equip them with the necessary skills for employability and self-sufficiency.”
Mr. Anaba further explained, “The key objectives of this scheme are as follows: to provide vocational skills training to unemployed youths in rural areas, to reduce rural-urban migration, to empower rural dwellers with practical skills, to address the absence of training facilities in rural areas, and to uplift the rural communities.”
He continued, stating that “Presently, out of the 50 unemployed youths and women who underwent training by the NDE, 20 individuals are receiving essential starter packs and tools in six popular skill areas, namely Cosmetology, Fashion Design, Hairdressing, Confectionery/Small Chop Production, Barbing, and Electrical Installations.”
The training, spanning three months, was conducted by experienced master craftsmen and women from the state.
Mr. Anaba urged all the beneficiaries to value and utilize these empowerment tools effectively to seize the opportunities presented.
In an interactive session on Vocational Management of the workshop, Use of the workshop, and Occupational Safety and Health Measures, Mr. Isah Abdul, the Director of Vocational Skill Development at the Abuja Headquarters, represented by Deputy Director Obinna Offia, engaged the trainees.
Expressing appreciation for the trainers and instructors, he advised the trainees not to sell the equipment but rather, to maximize its use and improve their lives.
Mr. Obiora Ananaba, the Head of the Department of Vocational Skill Development in the state, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for the privilege of training and equipping the beneficiaries with diverse skills.
“I implore you to demonstrate diligence by putting into practice what you have learned. This initiative seeks not only to provide employment but also to transform you into employers,” added Ananaba.
Mr. Emeka Okoroafor, the Head of the Loans Unit and Desk Officer of the Cooperative Society, encouraged the beneficiaries to form cooperative societies to access additional funds from the government for more fruitful business ventures.
Representing the State Commissioner for Skill Development and Job Creation, Mr. Okwu Udu, Mr. Hycinth Imo thanked the NDE for implementing this remarkable empowerment program for the people of Ebonyi.
Mr. Udu called for increased collaboration between the State Ministry of Skill Development and Job Creation and the NDE to achieve greater strides in the state.
In gratitude, one of the beneficiaries, Miss Nwoke Favor, expressed thanks on behalf of all the beneficiaries to the Nigerian government and the NDE for their invaluable support.
