By Jumai Nwachukwu/Ifeanyi Uwagwu
Youths in Delta have been encouraged to embrace opportunities to learn, grow and shape their future as leaders of tomorrow.
This charge was given by the Executive Secretary of the Technical and Vocational Education Board, Mr. Stanley Eruemulor, at the celebration of the World Youth Skills Day for Self-reliance, Employment and Entrepreneurship Development, held at the Vocational Center in Asaba, the State Capital, on Monday.
According to Eruemulor, the theme of this year’s celebration which harps on “Youth Skills for Peace and Development”, was timely as it supports the aspirations of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led-aspirations and that of the Board, noting that vocational skills empower youths to shun crime, while promoting peace, self-employment and a sustainable economy.
“This occasion holds special significance as it supports the policy thrust of the current administration and our Board. The Youths as our future leaders require an educational system that emphasizes vocational and technical skills as the panacea in solving the problem of unemployment and raising a competent labour force that is self-reliant”, he said.
While calling on all stakeholders to collectively reunite in recognizing the potential of young people as agents of peace and development, he also called for them to be provided with the right skills and opportunities that will contribute to a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable future.
In her address, the Director Programme and Training Department of the Delta State Technical and Vocational Board (TVEB) Mrs Blessing Ogheneaga said that the event aimed to create awareness at equipping young individuals with the necessary skills set for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship development.
Mrs. Ogheneaga reiterated that World Skills Day is celebrated to strengthen public awareness of the importance of vocational skills training, and its benefits in alleviating poverty and taking redundant youths off the street, saddled with the real of training and encouraging young individuals to embrace technical and vocational skills.
“It is a clear fact that when you empower the youths with skills today, they will build a better world tomorrow. Skills are the currency of success and the youths are the future millionaires of given the required support and conducive environment.” She said
She urged youths to embrace the benefits of vocational skill training to enable them to achieve greatness in future.
The Former Executive Secretary TVEB, Engr. Smart Ikem said that World Youth Skill Day is an event celebrated to underscore the importance of empowering young people with the necessary skills to succeed in a challenging world.
In his words, “People need a broad range of skills to contribute to the modern economy and whatever skill, attitude, competencies, knowledge and understanding one acquires, it will enhance the development of the individual and the nation.” He said.
Giving her remarks, the Administrator of the Centre, Mrs. Gilo Ebiere described the event as a laudable one as she applauded everyone for their commitment and contribution.
