Twenty Adolescent girls and women have been trained and empowered in different skills in order to make them self reliant, employers of labour and supporters of family income.
They were trained by a Bauchi based NGO, Alwadata Lifeline Initiative (ALLI) through a partnership with another NGO, Development Exchange Center (DEC) in different skills acquisition such as makeup, cake design and event planning.
The trainees after completion of the training which lasted for 3 months, were graduated and given starter packs with which they are expected to start up their own businesses as bosses and owners.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony which coincided with the close out of Alwadata Lifeline Initiative, Executive Director of DEC, Helen Abah said that, “At our organization, we firmly believe in the power of education, skill development, and equal opportunity for all.”
She said that, “It is with great pleasure and pride that I stand before you today as we gather to celebrate the successful close out of our partnership with Alwadata lifeline Initiative. This occasion marks not end to a chapter of collaboration but also serves as a moment to reflect upon the incredible achievements made possible through our joint efforts.”
Helen Abah said that,”First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to all the members of Alwadata Lifeline Initiative who have been instrumental in implementing and executing the training program in various skills. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to empowering truly made a significant impact on their lives and the communities they belong to.”
According to her, “The partnership with Alwadata Lifeline Initiative has been a shining example of how organizations can come together to create positive change and uplift the lives of marginalized individuals.”
Helen Abah added that, “Throughout the duration of this project, we have witnessed firsthand, the transformative effect it has had on the women who participated in the training program.”
“These women have not only acquired new skills but have also gained confidence, independence, and a sense of empowerment. They are now equipped with the tools they need to create a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities,” She added.
The DEC ED further said that, “I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the trainers, mentors, and volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to make this program a resounding success. Your selflessness and dedication have played a crucial role in the support they needed to succeed.”
She stressed that shaping the lives of these Adolescent girls and women and providing them with the support them with the support they needed.
According to her, “Furthermore, none of this would have been possible without the generous support and funding from our donor partner, Bread for the World Germany. It is thanks to their belief in our mission and their willingness to invest in initiatives like this that we have been able to make a tangible difference in the lives of these women. Their ongoing support is invaluable, and we are immensely grateful for their trust and partnership.”
“As we close this chapter, let us not forget that our work is not done. The impact of this training program will continue to reverberate through the lives of these women and their communities as they go on to create opportunities for themselves and inspire others around them. Let us strive to build upon this success and continue our efforts to promote gender equality, inclusivity, and Empowerment,” She appealed.
Helen Abah then expressed her deepest appreciation to everyone involved in the partnership and training program saying, “Together, we have made a tangible difference in the lives of men, unlocking their potential and paving the way for a better future.”
She concluded saying, “Thank you all for being part of this remarkable journey. Let us celebrate the achievements we have made and continue to work together to create a more equitable and prosperous society.”
Giving an overview of the program Executive Director of Alwadata Lifeline Initiative (ALLI), Mrs. Winifred Yusuf said that the objectives of the programme was to equip the beneficiaries and make them self-reliant and contributors to the family income.
She further said that though the journey was not an easy one, “but with patience, commitment and dedication, we are where we are today, the close out of the project and graduation of the trainee beneficiaries.”
Winifred Robinson Yusuf said that the trainees were carefully selected and encouraged to learn and acquire a skill will serve as a source of generation of income and livelihoods to them and their families.
She then advised them to effectively manage what they have acquired and ensure that they trained others so that the chain will continue thereby reducing the rate of poverty caused by high rate of unemployment especially among the Youths and women.
The ALLI ED then assured that though they have graduated and become independent, Alwadata will continue to monitor their progression and come in to assist them whenever possible.
She commended DEC for believing in the ability of her NGO to undertake the project saying that the partnership actually complemented the objectives of Alwadata which is all about the future of adolescent girls and women.