…Over 20 centers active across Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Eket, Oron LGAs in 18-month vocational training campaign
More groups have embraced the youth empowerment drive of Governor Umo Eno, by training young people and equipping them in various skills to be drivers of the economy.
The latest is the Akwa Ibom State Artisans Association has commenced a free, state-wide Skills Acquisition Programme, which aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda.
The programme, which commenced two months ago, is already in full swing across four major zones of the state.
These zones are in Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Eket, and Oron. The training is expected to run for a period of one year and six months.
So far, over 20 training centers have been activated with over 150 registered trainees.
The initiative offers a range of high-demand vocational skills aimed at equipping youths and unemployed graduates with tools for self-reliance and enterprise.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the training centers in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene, the President of the Artisans Association, Comrade Samuel Ekpenyong, emphasized that the initiative is more than just a vocational scheme but a vision rooted in purpose, compassion, and responsibility.
“This programme is not just about learning a trade. It is about changing lives, restoring hope, and creating pathways out of poverty. It has been a lifelong burden I’ve carried, a personal mission to empower our young people.
”When I shared the vision with our executive members and stakeholders, everyone was eager to come on board.
We saw it as our civic duty, and a direct way to support Governor Umo Eno’s people-centered ARISE Agenda.”
Mr. Ekpenyong further relayed that the training program is set to offer skills in upholstery, event management and decoration, fashion design, catering services, hairdressing and cosmetology, as well as solar installation. These are trades that are increasingly in demand and hold immense potential for self-employment and small business growth.
He further stated that the curriculum was carefully curated to match market realities. “We chose these particular skill areas after analyzing the trends in job creation and self-employment opportunities. We want to empower our youth to not only learn, but earn and build sustainable livelihoods.”
Conveying their satisfaction on the trainees, Mrs Glory Bassey and Ezinne Eke, expressed enthusiasm and commitment to the cause, seeing the program as a long-awaited platform to give back to society.
”The trainees have shown incredible enthusiasm. They are serious about the learning process, and it motivates us as trainers to give our very best. It was a challenge at first – especially considering the logistics and cost – but seeing the impact so far, we know it is worth it.”
Additionally, the program has also started yielding early success stories as several beneficiaries, especially young people, spoke with excitement and gratitude. They highlighted the life-changing impact the training is having on them.
“I’ve been part of the catering training for two months now, attending classes four times a week. I’ve learned how to make puff-puff, chin-chin, buns, and cakes. It has given me hope and something to look forward to,” Destiny Udo, a female trainee in Uyo said.
Another beneficiary undergoing training in solar installation added, “Before now, I had no clue about any skill. Today, I have the skill to install solar panels. This is a dream I never thought possible and I am thankful to the Association for this opportunity.”
Accompanying the President on the facility tour was Mrs. Mercy Akpan, the Media Head of the Association. She reiterated the Association’s commitment to sustaining the momentum of the initiative across all zones.
“This program is grassroots-driven, but with statewide impact. We are not waiting for everything to come from the government, we are taking responsibility as artisans to bridge the gap in our communities.”
With youth unemployment remaining a pressing challenge in the country, initiatives like this represent a proactive and inspiring model of community development.
The Akwa Ibom State Artisans Association has not only stepped up to train the next generation of skilled professionals but has also shown that real change often starts with individuals who are willing to take action for the good of others.
As the program progresses, expectations are high that it will create ripple effects – birthing small businesses, increasing household incomes, and contributing meaningfully to the socio-economic transformation of Akwa Ibom State.
