A group of 50 youths from Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area, has completed a technical skill acquisition training programme sponsored by Tee-Jee Scaffolding Limited, in collaboration with Anambra State Government, Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and Scaffold Training Institute, Texas, USA. The programme, in which the youths trained in a series of courses and practical training sessions, ended weekend with a colourful closing ceremony at Amawbia Town Hall.

The programme is part of the state government’s sustainable community development initiative, which also involves a four-week training in scaffolding operations.

Speaking at the event, Governor Willie Obiano who was represented by his Special Adviser on Youths Empowerment, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, said that the programme would serve as a good platform for youths to compete favourably in the Labour Market.

He noted that his administration has created several job opportunities in agriculture, with special focus on fishery, yam production, processing of rice and cassava, among others.

He, however, pointed out that his administration has also created the enabling environment for investors to thrive, saying that the state government has entered into partnership with international development agencies that would help bring positive impact on the state’s economy.

On his part, a trainer with the ITF, Mr Ogbonnaya Onuiruka, said the graduation of the trainees is another clear demonstration of ITF’s commitment towards positively impacting and empowering youths in the state through capacity-building, particularly in the technical field.

Also, facilitator of the programme, Mr Tochukwu Mbachu, said the youths were engaged in a series of courses and practical training sessions. He expressed satisfaction with the level of proficiency acquired by the graduates. He said that they were qualified to work anywhere in the world.

In the vote of thanks, leader of the trainees, Mr Chikwelu Adigwe, thanked the state government and the company for giving them the opportunity to participate in the programme and promised not to let them down.

•Photo shows Governor Obiano.