In a bid to empower the youth and promote self-reliance, Mr Godwin Luka, a philanthropist from Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna state, has sponsored the training of 696 young individuals in solar installation, CCTV camera operation, and First Time Attendance (FTM).
During the graduation ceremony held at the Kaura Local Government Secretariat on Saturday, Mr Luka expressed his intention to redirect the focus of the youth towards acquiring practical skills rather than solely pursuing white-collar jobs that may be scarce. He emphasized the importance of skills acquisition in enabling the youth to become productive and responsible citizens.
Out of the 696 trainees, 500 have received certification, and 30 were presented with starter packs to kickstart their careers. Mr Luka called upon other well-to-do individuals and organizations to join forces with him in providing additional starter packs to the remaining trainees.
Addressing the trainees, Mr Luka urged them to make the most of the training they have received and to pass on their knowledge to others, thus improving their own socio-economic status and that of their communities.
The guest speaker at the event, Comrade Mathew Barnabas Kambai, highlighted the diminishing value of academic certificates in the current job market. He encouraged the trainees to prioritize skill acquisition as a means of securing sustainable livelihoods. Moreover, he advised them to approach their new ventures with realism and time-bound goals, ensuring that they gain the confidence of their customers.
Expressing their gratitude, some of the beneficiaries praised Mr Luka for his extraordinary gesture. They vowed to utilize the skills they have acquired to enhance their living conditions and pledged to extend the training to others in need.
This initiative, named the “Maisola Youth Training and Development Program,” has not only equipped the youth with valuable skills but has also set them on a path towards a brighter future.
