The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, (CDS) General Christopher Musa has empowered one hundred and six grandaunts of Defence and Police Officers Wives Association, DEPOWA, Skills Acquisition Centre with one hundred thousand naira each to startup businesses which they were trained on.
The Defence Chief made this known during the graduation ceremony for Batch 17/24 in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
According to him, the graduating students should stand tall as the embodiment of hard work, resilience and determination having gone through over six months of intensive training.
General Musa said that “The beneficiaries should imbibe the training acquired with the values of discipline, adaptability and innovation which they all stand for adding that these qualities will be essential as they navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead”.
“Additionally, the skills they have acquired today, whether in tailoring, catering, hair making, information and communication technology or any other vocational training offered here, are more than just technical expertise as they are the foundation upon which they can build careers, start businesses and transform their dreams into reality.”
The CDS noted that as they begin this new phase of their lives, remember that the world values excellence, creativity and hard work.
“By putting your skill to use, you are contributing to the socio-economic development of our nation, fostering progress and creating a ripple effect of positive change. While striving to achieve personal success, ensure you also inspire and uplift others around you.”
He acknowledged the efforts of all the executive members, personnel and staff of Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association under the leadership of his wife, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, DEPOWA President for proven to be a ray of sunshine, embodiment of hope and empowerment, equipping individuals with the right skills set to lead more fulfilling and independent lives.
According to him, the Skills Accusation Program exemplifies DEPOWA commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for personnel and collective growth within the society.
“The impact of this initiative extends far beyond the walls of this centre, touches lives, nurtures dreams and aims to build a brighter future for all.”
The Defence Chief advised parents that “Whatever your children are doing, whatever they are reading at school, please let them learn another skill for the world they are moving into, skills will make that difference.”
He implored them not to rest on their oars in ensuring that they achieve their overall goal of this great association.
The CDS also gave the association ten million naira and the staff, 50 thousand naira each
Earlier, the DEPOWA President, Mrs Oghogho Musa said that she celebrated the beneficiaries of this empowerment program and commemorated her third graduation since she assumed office as President, DEPOWA.
“Today is indeed a significant milestone for the graduates as it marks not only the end of your training but the beginning of a new chapter in your lives”, she added.
According to her, every beginning, they say, has an end, this journey began on June 6, 2024 as she recalled how they sat and listened keenly during the inaugural ceremony at the DEPOWA Secretariat Hall.
“I saw determination and willingness to learn and today I am impressed by the essence of transformation displayed by you all. From not having a skill to becoming professionals, fashion designers, chefs, makeup artists, computer operators, producers of household items, barbers, hair and bag makers, I am so proud of you all”, she said.
She urged them that as they are stepping forward with new skills, new opportunities, and most importantly, a renewed sense of purpose and potential to make good use of the opportunity to better their lives and equally better the lives of others.
“Bear in mind that skilled individuals create employment, generate income, and importantly, inspire others. Your achievements today go beyond personal success. They lay the foundation for a brighter future for your families and a stronger, more resilient society.
“Additionally, always remember that you are now ambassadors of vision, as such, please be worthy ambassadors.”
The DEPOWA President, gave them starter packs each for business growth and expansion from them all.
“I’m hopeful that if you practice all you have learned here, the sky will be the limit for your starting point.”
The Course Coordinator, Major General Benjamin Ananya said that the course was inaugurated on the 31st of May, 2024 and training commenced immediately with a total of 111 participants comprising 36 widows, 74 vulnerable individuals, and one non-vulnerable person who were sponsored by various organizations and individuals.
According to her, the desired outcome of the course was to develop entrepreneurs who are globally competitive, self-sufficient, and proficient in their skills and enable them to make a meaningful impact in the market.
During the period under review, the students received training on a variety of skills which included fashion designing, this department basically transformed persons from raw materials into professional tellers.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, one of the women appreciated the coordinator and instructors who have tirelessly imparted knowledge and skills to them throughout the training.
According to her, their guidance, patience and encouragement has instrumentally shaped them into competent professionals ready to embark on a new chapter in their lives.
“Their belief in their potential has instilled in them the confidence to pursue their dreams with determination and resilience”.
Certificates were awarded to them all.
PIAK
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