In a move to foster skills acquisition and promote economic empowerment, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat through the Department of Mass Education has flagged off a one-week free holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training program. The program is a collaborative initiative of the FCT Department of Mass Education, The Potter’s Wheel Foundation, and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS).

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo emphasized the Importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship in today’s world describing it as imperative to be self reliant, empowered and resourceful.

He highlighted the Wike- led FCT Administration’s commitment to championing the Renewed Hope Agenda adding that the initiative is a critical strategy for reducing unemployment and building resilience among Abuja residents through practical skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.

He commended the Department on the synergy between the government and non-governmental organizations noting that it will further empower the people of the FCT with skills and knowledge that lead to viable income-generating opportunities.

Urging the participants to fully utilize the opportunity, network actively and apply themselves diligently to the various training sessions.

Earlier in her welcome address, Dr. Favour Edem -Nse, the Director, FCT Department of Mass Education said, the training aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contributes significantly to reducing the number of out- of- school children, unskilled youths and unemployed women in the Federal Capital Territory.

She added that, the Department goal is not just to train but to guide participants towards becoming self sufficient and successful entrepreneurs. Noting that the one-week free training program is a manifestation of the Department ‘s broader vision of literacy and lifelong learning.

Dr. Edem-Nse revealed that the Department in collaboration with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation and the Nigerian Non- Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS) will train them hands on session in production of laundry soap, bleach, liquid soap, toilet and car wash, disinfectant, air freshener, snack among others as well as key entrepreneurship modules on Bookkeeping and financial management, marketing and branding with social media management.

She expressed her gratitude to the Mandate Secretary for Education and the Management for the massive support of the life changing opportunity program targeted at women, youths, children and other community residents to equip them with tools for economic self reliance.

The well attended program which drew partner organizations, staff of the Department of Mass Education and enthusiastic participants will run throughout the week with facilitators providing continued support beyond the training period.