NDDC, NGO Train Disabled Persons On Skills In Imo

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has concluded a Two- Week Training and Empowerment Programme for over 30 persons living with disability in Imo State in other to make them become self reliance and curb unemployment.  

The programme which was facilitated by Impact Life Medical Foundation, taught Shoemaking, Confectionary, Beadmaking, Headtie, GSM repairs, Makeup, Wigmaking and Photography skills to the participants.

Speaking during the event, the State Coordinator of the programme, Mrs Ogechi Okehielam, said the program was aimed at meeting the global unemployment challenge especially as it concerns the physically challenged.

Okehielam noted that the dire consequences of unemployment was on the increase and lamented the near total neglect of the physically challenged persons across the state, adding that employment generation had therefore become “a factor of paramount importance to every nation development agenda.” She further advised the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and exploit it for self reliance and wealth creation.

The Coordinator disclosed that some of the beneficiaries would receive “Mobility” such as Wheelchairs, Crutches and Canes in addition to the starter packs which would enable them set up their businesses after the programme.

She however commended NDDC for the laudable programme and urged them to continue with the project to enable more disabled persons benefit. One of the trainees Mr Godspower Anyawu who was trained on mobile phone repair commended the trainees, adding that with what he learnt, he could setup a business of his own. “This is a wonderful day for me, I no longer feel like a disabled person, but a normal person who can compete with others.

He urged NDDC to sustain the programme in other to give more disabled persons hope of a better future. Another trainee Tochukwu Nwokeukwu who also received training on shoemaking said he could establish a small scale business with the starter pack he received from the trainees.

Nwokeukwu who noted that he has been unemployed, said he has acquired better skills to train others in future. Mr Friday Chukwuneke, a visually impaired man who trained on bead making advised other trainees to seize the opportunity to become self reliance.

(NAN)