The Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo state has commenced the training of 1,000 youths in various vocational skills targeted at generating employment that would enable self reliance and financial independence for participants.
The training commenced yesterday, September, 19, at the Local Government Secretariat, Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan.
The vocational skills participants are currently undergoing training for include hairdressing, barbing, tailoring, making of local fabrics otherwise called ‘Kampa’, Catering, and Headgear making also called ‘Gele’.
The Executive Chairman of the LG, Engr. Akeem Olatunji disclosed that the Council is also partnering with a leading commercial bank to provide access to soft loans to participants of the intensive two-week vocational training program.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the flag off of the training, Olatunji said the 1,000 participants were drawn from across the 10 political wards in the Oluyole LG.
While stressing the economic significance of the vocational training program to his administration which he said is aimed at boosting local entrepreneurship and skill development, Olatunji assured that participants would be financially empowered at the end of the exercise in form of a soft loan for immediate start up.
The Council Boss equally disclosed that the ongoing training exercise at the LG Secretariat was the first phase saying the second phase which would hold at the LCDA Headquarters at Olode would commence after the completion of phase 1.
“This skill vocational training program, which is central to our economic development agenda began yesterday and has seen 1,000 residents enrolled in various skill acquisition courses designed to empower them for sustainable self employment geared towards financial independence and self reliance.
“The ongoing vocational training covers a range of sectors and participants were selected based on their interest and potential to contribute to the local economy.
“By empowering our young men and women with vocational skills, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient economy. This partnership with the financial institution will not only equip participants with the necessary skills but also provide the financial support needed to start their own businesses.
Some of the participants undergoing the vocational training told newsmen that the Council chairman was a God sent who has placed the people at the center of all his economic policies and programs since assumption of office.
They equally commended Olatunji for facilitating a soft loan facility for them at the end of the training exercise saying it would immensely help them to navigate the challenges of starting and running their businesses.
One of the participants, Mr Adekola, who spoke to newsmen in Yoruba language said: “This training has opened my eyes to new possibilities and how I can become productive and make money for myself and to take care of my family.”
Another participant, Miss Folakemi Tijani said, “With the way they’re training us, I’m sure I will practice what I’m learning after the training and with the loan support, I feel confident I can start my own business.”