By Oluwayomi Ayenibiowo

Over 400 teenagers, youths and adults from Magboro and neighbouring communities in Ogun State benefited from a five- day free skills acquisition programme organised by Dynamic Impact Christian Centre (DICC) as part of its community development initiative.

The event, tagged IGASP 2.0 (Impact Get A Skill Programme), was designed to equip participants with practical skills that could enhance their financial independence, self-reliance and contribution to their communities.

The beneficiaries were trained in barbing, hairdressing, shoemaking, soap making, air-freshener production, facial makeover, web design, graphics design, content creation and live streaming, video editing, sewing and pattern design, among others.

Dynamic Impact Christian Centre (DICC), which was founded by Pastor Kayode Olutayo and his wife, Pastor Kemi Olutayo is a year and seven months old. Its mission, according to the Lead Pastor Olutayo, is to build a generation that seeks after God.The Lead Pastor, whois popularly known as PKO, said the initiative was conceived to empower young people and provide a productive alternative to idleness and involvement in social vice. He added that the programme was particularly aimed at helping youths to resist restiveness and avoid drugs, crime, cultism and thuggery.

Olutayo said: “Last year, we began IGASP, and we had over 200 who registered and were taught different skills. It is in its second year now; we did this to impact the youths of the community instead of allowing them to loiter on the streets, engaging in smoking and gangsterism.” He said the programme was organised for youths who had recently completed their secondary school or in tertiary education and those awaiting admission, NYSC call-up or employment, as well as those already employed but interested in acquiring additional skills.

He urged the attendees to maximise their potential with the skills acquired, adding that the opportunity could become gateways to new careers, businesses and opportunities for them to become a blessing to their families and communities.

The training, according to Olutayo, attracted participants from Ilupeju, Oke-Afa, Olowofela, Kajola, Akeran, Gas Line and other communities within the Magboro 1 and 2 axis.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Olutayo encouraged the graduands to remain determined in the face of challenges and make effective use of the skills they had acquired. Drawing from the biblical story of David and Goliath, the cleric admonished participants not to be discouraged in case they encounter any setback after leaving the avenue of the event.

“As you leave here, there are Goliaths out there shouting at you. Don’t think that everything will drop on your laps overnight,” he said. He likened the skills acquired by the participants to David’s stone and sling, describing them as simple but potentially powerful tools for confronting the challenges ahead.

“Already we have told you that you are matter that matters. And to the Goliath, you are not to react but to respond as David, for the school has handed something to you,” he said.

The cleric emphasised that skills such as graphic design, video editing and barbing could serve as practical tools for overcoming economic challenges, just as David used his seemingly simple weapons to defeat Goliath.

“It was not the sling and stone, but rather it was the fact that God backed him up; therefore, let God back you up with whatever skill you have learnt, and you will shine,” Olutayo said.

At the end of the programme, the organisersprayed for the graduands and urged them to goandshine wherever they found themselves.He also appreciated the facilitators for their sacrifices and support towards the initiative.

The closing ceremony featured an exhibition of products made by the graduands during the training. Items such as liquid soap, air freshener, shoes, pastries, headgear and various designs were displayed during the five-day programme.