THE Ekiti State Government has commenced the third phase of the vocational training and empowerment programme aimed at equipping persons with disabilities (PWDs) with essential skills to enhance self-sufficiency and contribute meaningfully to society.
The initiative, which took place at the Ekiti State Skills Acquisition Centre in Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, aligns with the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, emphasized that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration prioritizes shared prosperity, noting that the programme was specifically designed for individuals with disabilities who, due to their conditions, were unable to access formal education.
According to her, the state government is determined to equip them with vocational skills to enable financial independence.
She explained that the training marks the third edition of the programme, with 30 participants trained in 2023, 40 in 2024 and 120 beneficiaries targeted for the 2025 phase to be conducted in two batches of 60 participants each.
Princess Agboola further explained that after completing their training, participants would undergo an Industrial Training Experience in collaboration with various artisan associations, including those in hairdressing, tailoring, ICT, catering, and shoemaking.
She stated that artisans were actively involved in this year’s edition to provide additional mentorship and post-training support, adding that the beneficiaries would receive startup kits to help them establish their own businesses, with the government closely monitoring their progress to ensure success.
She urged participants to take the training seriously and make the most of the opportunity.
Also, the Director-General of the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Dr. John Ekundayo, encouraged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunities presented by the programme.
He commended Governor Oyebanji for championing their cause, describing him as a leader who deeply cares about the welfare of persons with disabilities.
Dr Ekundayo also underscored the importance of vocational skills in addressing Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
A former beneficiary, Ife Abejide, expressed gratitude to the governor for his support, while a new participant, Adebayo Tope, vowed to make the most of the opportunity.
Others also thanked Governor Oyebanji for fostering inclusivity and providing them with a platform to thrive, assuring the government that they would justify its investment in them.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr Anthony Adebayo, Head of the Department of Gender and Social Work at the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, and Mr Kehinde Otitoju, who represented the Commissioner for Trade and Investment.
The vocational training programme includes various skill categories such as Shoemaking, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Hairdressing, Catering and Tailoring.
Through this initiative, the Ekiti State Government continues to make significant strides in empowering persons with disabilities and fostering an inclusive society.
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