Four newly qualified trainers have graduated from the intensive 10-day International Labour Organisation Start and Improve Your Business (ILO-SIYB) Training of Trainers workshop.
The virtual event, facilitated by ILO-SIYB Master Trainer Kemisola Rosamond T’Oluwanimi, equipped participants with the skills to empower budding and established entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
The ILO-SIYB program, a globally recognized small business management training initiative, has been adapted to suit South African and Nigerian conditions since its inception in 1996.
This latest training focused on three key programs: Generate Your Business Idea (GYBI), Start Your Business (SYB), and Improve Your Business (IYB).
Graduates will now be able to deliver these programs, helping entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses and contribute to economic growth.
The closing ceremony featured addresses from key dignitaries including the President of NECA’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), Mrs. Adefunke Kuyoro, who emphasized the critical role of proper business training and urged graduates to leverage their skills to support entrepreneurs’ success.
“Training and imparting knowledge are needful in our society.
The Training of Trainers Workshop, would guide the trainers to assist entrepreneurs to have proper grounding in the way business is run.
When businesses start well and are run well, they have the edge over others.
I encourage the graduands to follow the International Labour Organisation Vision to ensure that entrepreneurs do things the right way.
I also urge the trainers not to stop after the training but do all they can to help entrepreneurs succeed.” she reiterated.
On her part, the Master Trainer, Kemisola T’Oluwanimi highlights the objectives of the program and its impact on entrepreneurs.
” Trainers would be training potential and existing entrepreneurs after the programme so that there would be economic development, employment opportunities, and national development.
ILO trains Master Trainers, who in turn train the Trainers to ensure structured and consistent training.
The Trainers are qualified SIYB Trainers after the 10- Day intensive workshop, but would have to practise what they learnt before they receive the ILO-SIYB Certificates.
The programme is material-based, user- friendly, illustrative and written in simple language: all materials used were produced by ILO so that there is consistency in delivery worldwide.
The programme is running successfully in over 130 countries of the world with great impact on businesses and economic growth.” she highlights.
Other speakers including Fellow NNEW leaders, Mrs. Folakemi Fatade and Mrs. Bukola Femi-Ajala, also offered words of encouragement and advice on adapting the program to various sectors and demographics.
“The programme is a great milestone and the beginning of an exciting journey. I want the grasuates to leverage on the teamwork garnered in class to push forward.”
“The programme is an opening gap for retirees and potential retirees.” they stated.
The four graduates, including Fred Anene Nduka, Mrs. Olayide omoJesu Adisa, Amos Oloruntobi Alade, and Usiere Uko, are poised to make a significant impact on the Nigerian business landscape.
Their training marks a crucial step in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic development in the country.
Victoria Ibanga