By Jumai Nwachukwu/Joan Ogbeide
The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and technological advancement by awarding grants to six outstanding beneficiaries of the Technology Skill Acquisition Programme (TSAP). The official presentation was held under the supervision of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Odinigwe Odigie at the Delta State Innovation Hub in Asaba, the State Capital.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Odigie expressed his delight at the success of the program, which trained 50 freelance welders, carefully selected from the 25 local government areas of the state. The participants were trained in the fabrication of lubricant-making machines and the production of lubricants, during a comprehensive session held from June 7-10, 2022.
“This event marks a significant milestone in the journey of these talented individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance throughout the program,” said Dr. Odigie. “We are confident that this training has equipped them with the necessary skills to thrive in today’s ever-evolving technological landscape.”
The TSAP is designed to create economic opportunities and foster innovation through skill development and the initiative aligns with the MORE agenda of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration to create jobs, economic diversification, and youth empowerment.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Dr. Odigie encouraged them to push boundaries and turn their dreams into reality. “This is your moment to soar in the growing need for job creation, economic diversification, and skills empowerment. With the grant and the knowledge you’ve gained, you are well-positioned to explore new frontiers in technology and drive meaningful change.”
The commissioner extended his appreciation to the Governor for his unwavering commitment to these objectives, while also thanking the trainers and stakeholders who played vital roles in making the TSAP a success. He emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that programs like TSAP continue to inspire and equip youth with the skills necessary to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ejiro Ogheneaga, said the event resonates with the ethos of the ministry, which is to reward diligence. He urged the beneficiaries of the grant to be hardworking and become mentors to others, while encouraging them to make judicious use of the grants.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Success Onovwona, who spoke for the group, thanked the State Government and the ministry for the opportunity to kickstart their projects, while assuring that they would do their best to make the state proud. He also appreciated the instructors and trainers for their encouragement during the programme.
The beneficiaries of the grant include, Mr Benjamin Inanba (Isoko North); Mr James Aboloko (Ethiope West); Mr Success Onovwona (Ethiope West); Mr Moses Olomiwe (Aniocha South); Mr Ugochukwu Dameh (Ukwuani) and Mr Fredrick Okpor (Ndokwa West).
