Abuja: The Vice-Chancellor, University of Abuja, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, emphasized the pivotal role of skill acquisition programs in driving national development during the closing ceremony of the UniAbuja Community Skill Acquisition Initiative. Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Rosemary Udeozo, Fawehinmi underscored the importance of practical skills in shaping the economic future of nations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Community Skill Acquisition Initiative, organized by the university’s Centre for Student Empowerment and Mentoring (CSEM), aims to equip students with necessary skills to enhance self-employment. Fawehinmi highlighted that the initiative is crucial for national development and youth empowerment, stressing that the economic progress of many developed countries is rooted in their investment in skill acquisition.
Fawehinmi pointed out that the centre’s establishment was a strategic move to combat the high unemployment rates plaguing the nation, enabling students to gain a foothold in society through skills that promote self-reliance and economic independence. He emphasized that these skills empower individuals to generate wealth for themselves and contribute positively to the broader society.
The vice-chancellor also noted that the skill acquisition centre employs a continuous model, maintaining connections with trainees post-program. Successful graduates are invited back to mentor new participants, ensuring a sustainable cycle of skill development within the university community.
Addressing the link between skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, Fawehinmi remarked that true wealth creation lies in applying skills to produce goods and services. He encouraged graduates to leverage opportunities in various sectors, fostering financial independence and entrepreneurship.
Prof. Adeniran Lateef, Director of the Centre, shared that the initiative, founded two years ago, had already graduated over 2,000 students in diverse skills. He explained the centre’s outreach to the host community, training individuals in skills such as baking and cosmetology, as part of its societal contribution.
Graduate Trainee Mr. Suleiman Timothy highlighted the impact of the fashion design training, with over 100 trainees now applying their skills commercially. He advocated for the establishment of a formal fashion academy within the institution to enhance certification and industry partnerships.
Miss Eliana Francis, a beneficiary from the host community, expressed her gratitude to the university for the skill acquisition opportunity, which she plans to use to support herself and her family through baking.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants, marking the successful completion of their training.