Abuja:The Creative Director of Springfield Fashion Academy (SFA), Blessing Ugwuodo, has called on young Nigerians to acquire practical and vocational skills to achieve financial independence and self-reliance. This advice was given during the graduation ceremony of the academy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event in Abuja gathered stakeholders from the creative sector, alongside family and friends of the graduating students. Ugwuodo emphasized that combining formal education with vocational and technical skills is crucial for transforming from job seekers into job creators, especially as Nigeria faces increasing unemployment.
Ugwuodo stated that while academic degrees are important, they are often insufficient for securing economic independence. She encouraged youths, whether graduates or not, to gain practical skills while pursuing employment. She highlighted the importance of self-initiative, urging young people not to wait for government jobs but to leverage their skills and technology to showcase their work to a global audience.
The academy aims to empower individuals to create their own opportunities, reducing reliance on government or organizations. Ugwuodo also called for government initiatives to promote skills acquisition at grassroots levels, benefiting all individuals regardless of educational background. Since its inception eight years ago, SFA has trained numerous individuals, including widows and people with disabilities, to achieve financial freedom through fashion.
Ugwuodo explained that the academy offers more than tailoring skills, equipping students with knowledge in various fashion industry opportunities. The Business of Fashion course at SFA teaches students how to start, build, and market their brands using technology and social media.
Sen. Ben Obi, who attended the event, commended the graduates for their creativity and emphasized the need for skills alongside higher education for financial security. He called for government support for young entrepreneurs to help expand their businesses. Dr. Sani Gwarzo, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary, highlighted the role of private-sector investments in complementing government empowerment efforts.
Graduating students expressed gratitude for the skills acquired. Mercy Gabriel gained expertise in garment construction and marketing, while Peter Ebenezer found the training challenging but rewarding. The ceremony featured a fashion runway where students showcased their designed garments.
The graduates also voiced concerns about inadequate electricity affecting their production, urging the government to improve power supply.