Lagos graduates 5,512 students from skill centres

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation for its unwavering dedication to empowering women and youths as the ministry graduated 5,512 students from the 19 Skills Acquisition Centres across the state.

Over the past five years, the 19 Lagos State Skill Acquisition Centres have produced 23,604 vocational graduates, with a significant increase attributed to the state government’s passion for empowering residents through diversified vocational training.

During the graduation ceremony of the 2023/2024 set, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of skills acquisition as a collective effort to reduce poverty and foster economic growth in Lagos State.

He said, “The government understands that empowering women, young adults, and vulnerable groups is key to building a sustainable society. Through the various programs of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, we have focused on providing practical solutions that promote self-reliance and economic independence.”

He stressed his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

He said, “Today’s event is proof of the dedication shown by each of you. Your graduation signifies not only your achievement but also the positive impact you are poised to make on the economy and society at large.”

Sanwo-Olu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Commissioner of WAPA, Bolaji Cecilia Dada, for her tireless efforts and passion for uplifting the lives of women, young adults, and vulnerable groups in the state.

“You have been a driving force behind the success of our Skills Acquisition and Empowerment programs, ensuring they are comprehensive and tailored to the needs of our diverse population,” he said. “Under your leadership, we have seen significant improvements in the resources available to our students. The programmes you’ve championed have transformed lives, equipping our young men and women with essential skills that enhance employability and foster an entrepreneurial spirit. Your dedication to creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, has made a lasting impact on our society.”

He congratulated the graduates, saying, “You are now part of a growing community of empowered individuals, ready to impact not only your lives but also your communities. You have worked hard, shown great resilience, and equipped yourselves with valuable skills that will form the foundation of your future success and Nigeria as a whole.”

The governor urged the graduates to use their knowledge to create jobs, innovate, and inspire others.

“As you enter this exciting new chapter, remember that learning is a lifelong journey. Keep seeking knowledge, collaborate with other great minds, and give back to your communities. Stay connected with your fellow graduates and leverage the networks you’ve built along the way.”

Commissioner Dada reflected on the journey the graduates had undertaken over the past year, acknowledging the challenges they faced and the resilience they demonstrated. She expressed gratitude to the governor for his continuous support, attributing much of the ministry’s success to his vision and leadership.

Dada reiterated the ministry’s broader mission to break the cycle of poverty through skills development, empowering individuals to uplift not just themselves but entire communities.

She also noted the ministry’s work in offering psycho-social counselling and advocacy for survivors of gender-based violence, underscoring WAPA’s commitment to holistic empowerment.

Encouraging the graduates to make the most of their training, Dada reminded them that their skills extend beyond certificates, serving as gateways to life-changing opportunities. Whether in fashion, catering, cosmetology, computer studies, or other fields, the skills acquired were presented as tools to drive personal and societal transformation.

She urged the new graduates to seek mentorship, support one another, and continue learning, fostering a culture of collaboration that benefits both individuals and the state as a whole.

Dada encouraged the graduates to leverage the skills they have acquired, whether in fashion design and dressmaking, catering and hotel management, hairdressing and cosmetology, computer studies, aluminium fabrication, or other fields.

She said, “You have the capability to transform your lives and those of others around you. Remember that your skills are not merely certificates; they are passports to opportunities that can change your communities.”

She stressed the importance of collaboration and support. “As you step into the world, know that you are not alone. The ministry is here to support you on this journey. Seek mentorship, continue to learn and relearn, and reach out to one another. Together, we can foster an ecosystem of support and encouragement that uplifts our collective ambitions.”