Abuja: The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) has empowered 50 graduates of the Igarra Community Learning Centre in Edo with vocational equipment to help them establish businesses. The Acting Executive Secretary of NMEC, Dr. John Edeh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday by the commission’s spokesperson, Issa Marughu.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the empowerment initiative was organized by NMEC through its Department of Literacy and Development in conjunction with the Vocational and Continuing Education Department. The event featured the presentation of certificates to graduates trained in various trades, including fashion designing, catering and event management, hairdressing, and local weaving. This initiative aligns with the commission’s commitment to promoting vocational education and creating sustainable livelihoods through skills acquisition.
Edeh expressed appreciation for the traditional institution, the Igarra Community Development Initia
tive, and residents for supporting the learning centre. He highlighted that while NMEC has established 12 Community Learning Centres nationwide, the Igarra centre is the only one functioning effectively, serving not only the local community but the entire southern region.
Dr. Edeh urged the public to make use of the opportunities provided by the centre and advised the beneficiaries to utilize the equipment productively. He assured that NMEC would monitor the beneficiaries to ensure the starter packs are used for their intended purposes.
The Coordinator of the Igarra Community Learning Centre, Mrs. Ahmadu Lamin, expressed gratitude to NMEC and the community for their steadfast support, emphasizing the centre’s contributions to the growth and development of Nigerian youths.
Mr. Michael Okara, President of the Igarra Community Development Initiative (ICDI), spoke on the topic ‘Skills for Self-Reliance: Empowering Communities Through Vocational Training,’ emphasizing the value of skills in ensuring sustainable
livelihoods. He encouraged the graduates to cherish their acquired skills as enduring assets.
His Royal Highness Otu Baja, the Oshimidase of Igarra, praised the Federal Government and NMEC for maintaining the initiative, which has created new opportunities for youths and women, reduced unemployment, and contributed to community development. He urged beneficiaries to utilize the equipment to start businesses, create jobs, and train others in their trades.
Outstanding graduates received empowerment items such as sewing machines, industrial ovens, complete hairdressing salon equipment, ring lights, and other vocational tools. The event also included practical demonstrations by the graduates, with a handwoven Aso-Oke fabric presented to the acting executive secretary as a token of appreciation for NMEC’s support.