- Launches Women Empowerment Skills Acquisition Program
BY RITA OYIBOKA
In fulfilment of the MORE Agenda, the Delta State Government has launched the Women Empowerment Skill Acquisition Programme (WESAP), empowering 220 female artisans across the 25 Local Government Areas of the state.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, aims to enhance economic opportunities for women and will provide a two-week intensive training program and starter packs for 220 selected women who have yet to establish their trades.
In her address at the occasion, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon Pat Ajudua, praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the state’s First Lady, Dcns Tobore Oborevwori, for their commitment to empowering women, a key part of their MORE Agenda and the You Matter initiative.
Highlighting the impact of women’s empowerment on society, Ajudua noted, “When you empower a woman, you empower a nation. These beneficiaries were carefully selected from all 25 local government areas of the state and will be closely monitored to ensure the program’s productivity.
“The skills offered in this program include fashion and design, hairdressing, confectionaries, decoration and event management, and beauty care and upon completion of the training, the women will receive starter packs to enable them to start their businesses.”
The Commissioner appealed to the beneficiaries to take the opportunity seriously and make the most of it. She emphasized that the state and the Ministry have invested in them, and they shouldn’t let them down, adding that there will be a test after the two-week training, where they’ll showcase their expertise.
She further cautioned them against misusing the starter packs, warning that they are not for sale. Ajudua added: “Future inspections will be conducted to ensure the resources provided are being utilised effectively, with further investments from the state government planned for successful businesses.”
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, delivered a lecture on entrepreneurship development and business management, speaking to the beneficiaries about effective business management strategies.
She advised the women to remain focused and committed, urging them to keep meticulous records of their transactions and to reinvest profits to grow their businesses.
Speaking with The Pointer after the occasion, one of the beneficiaries, Patience Esalobo, shared that the program has given her the tools to pursue her dreams. “I’ve been struggling to find my footing, and this training is exactly what I needed. I plan to work hard, utilise the starter pack effectively, and build a successful business,” she said.
Beatrice Nwaokocha, who is venturing into hairdressing, also expressed her appreciation, saying, “This is a life-changing opportunity for me. I am thankful to the government for considering women like us. With this support, I can now create a better future for myself and my family.”
