By Nwanneka Nwokedi
Beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Vocational and Skill Training Programme (VSTP) in Anambra State have received starter packs to help them establish businesses and apply the skills acquired during their training.
The distribution, which began on August 11, was supervised by a team from the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), led by Anadu Ijeoma Anita, alongside the programme officer in the state.
The exercise was conducted at various training centres across the state, including the Federal Youth Centre, Mgbakwu; His Promise School of Vocational Training, Awka; Metallurgical Training Institute, Onitsha; and Government Technical College, Umueri.
The starter packs included sewing machines, vulcanising machines, mechanical toolboxes, masonry and bricklaying equipment, catering and cooking utensils, housekeeping tools and other materials relevant to the beneficiaries’ areas of training.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for providing both vocational training and the tools needed to begin their chosen trades.
One of the beneficiaries, Obidike Patrick, from His Promise School of Vocational Training, Awka, said the vulcanising machine would enable him to start his business immediately.
“I want to thank the Federal Government for this laudable project. With this machine, I will be able to start my vulcanising business now,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Chiamaka Orajiaka, from Government Technical College, Umueri, said the programme gave her an opportunity to pursue her passion for baking without the financial burden of paying for professional training.
“I’m so happy today to be one of the beneficiaries. I have always had a passion for baking but could not afford professional training. Through this programme, I learned the skill for free and have now been equipped with the tools to establish my own business,” she said.
A sewing trainee, Tarry Francisca Ibe, also expressed gratitude, saying lack of resources, particularly a sewing machine, had previously prevented her from pursuing the trade.
She said the sewing machine would give her the opportunity to begin working and build her own business.
The beneficiaries said the support had given them greater confidence to turn their newly acquired skills into sustainable livelihoods.
Nwanneka Nwokedi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
