The empowerment and autonomy of men and women leads to the improvement of their political, social, economic and health status and this is a highly important end in itself.

This is why many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Nigeria, with the support of private organisations, are tackling the issue head-on, and especially to support in growing the economy.

Many engage in vocational, technical and entrepreneurship training for Nigerian youths and adults willing to acquire or improve on a skill.

One of such NGOs, Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) Centre, in partnership with, Nagode Foundation, recently graduated 20 trainees from its 2019 vocational and skills acquisition training center.

The ceremony, which saw graduates take home relevant equipment and interest-free loans to boost the establishment of their new businesses.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Meenakshi Garg, Chairperson, Nagode Foundation, reiterated the place of partnership in impacting lives in the society, adding that her organisation is gladly working with FSD to achieve that set objective.

“Nagode family is extremely happy working with FSD. I’m happy you understand and believe in the training and in yourself for a better future. This is the power of partnership,” she said.

While congratulating the graduates, she said, she advised them not to see the benefit of acquiring skill as for their own growth and development alone, but also see it as an avenue and opportunity for training others. “We have trained you. Go out and train others. That is the only way to grow in numbers, impact people and grow the economy. You have to work for your life and the people in your life. We are so proud of you,” she said.

Mrs. Garg also commended FSD for doing a great job, in imparting the trainees with the character and seeded skills.

In her own speech, FSD Managing Director, Mrs. Omowale Ogunrinde, said interest-free loan ranging from N80, 000 to N150, 000 will be given to some of the beneficiaries while equipment including cooking gas with cylinders, dummies, hand dryers scale, sewing machines would be given to the trainees.

“We will present you with your equipment for free to go out there and work. For those that will receive the loan, don’t consider it free money that you have to waste. We will collect it back from you later. So guarantors should encourage them to work and earn a living for themselves and contribute their quotas to the society,” she said, addressing the graduates.

One of the students who trained in catering, Tope Praise, described the training as a completely different experience. “The teaching opens you up and we are taught with lots of patience. A big thank you to Nagode, “she said.

Amaechi Innocent, who trained in hairdressing commended the organisers, adding that if he were to pay for the training, he wouldn’t have been able to afford it. “If we’re to pay, my parents can’t afford it. It’s a dream come true because I have always had a passion for hairdressing. I say a big thank you to Nagode. If everybody that has money can do this, there’ll be less suicide in the country,” he said.

On display at the ceremony were the works and products by the trainees.