By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
A Bauchi based Non Governmental Organization, Alwadata Lifeline Initiative (ALLI), in partnership with Development Exchange Center Bauchi, with support from a donor partner known as Bread for the World Germany have trained Twenty Adolescent girls and women in different skills in an effort to improve their economic status in their respective communities.
The beneficiaries were trained in different enterprising skills such as makeup, baking and event decorations and planning.
The trainees after completion of the training which lasted for 3 months, were graduated and given starter packs with which they are expected to start up their own businesses.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at the weekend, Executive Director of Alwadata Lifeline Initiative (ALLI) Mrs. Winifred Robinson Yusuf said that the objectives of the programme was to equip the beneficiaries and make them self-reliant and also contribute to the family income.
She further said that though the journey was not an easy, but that with patience, commitment and dedication, the collective effort has come to fruition with the graduation of the Twenty trainees.
Winifred Robinson Yusuf said that the trainees were carefully selected based on certain criteria and encouraged to learn and acquire skills that will serve as a source of income generation and further improve their economic status and that of their families.
She then advised them to effectively manage what they have acquired and ensure that they trained others so that the chain will continue, thereby reducing the rate of poverty caused by high rate of unemployment especially among the Youths and women.
The ALLI ED then assured that though they have graduated and become independent, Alwadata will continue to monitor their progression and come in to assist them when the need arises.
She then commended DEC for believing in the ability of her NGO to undertake the project saying that the partnership actually complemented the objectives of Alwadata which is all about the future of adolescent girls and women.
In her remarks, Executive Director of DEC, Helen Abah said that, DEC firmly believe in the power of education, skill development, and equal opportunity for all.
Mrs. Abah said the occasion does not only marked the end of of a productive collaboration, but also serves as a moment to reflect upon the incredible achievements made possible through the joint efforts.
“First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to all the members of Alwadata Lifeline Initiative who have been instrumental in implementing and executing the training program in various skills. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to empowering the trainees truly made a significant impact on their lives and the communities they belong to”, said Abah.
According to her, “The partnership with Alwadata Lifeline Initiative has been a shining example of how organizations can come together to create positive change and uplift the lives of marginalized individuals.”
Helen Abah added that, “Throughout the duration of this project, we have witnessed firsthand, the transformative effect it has had on the women who participated in the training program.”
“These women have not only acquired new skills but have also gained confidence, independence, and a sense of empowerment. They are now equipped with the tools they need to create a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities,” She added.
The DEC ED further said that, “I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the trainers, mentors, and volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to make this program a resounding success”.
“None of this would have been possible without the generous support and funding from our donor partner, Bread for the World Germany. It is thanks to their belief in our mission and their willingness to invest in initiatives like this that we have been able to make a tangible difference in the lives of these women. Their ongoing support is invaluable, and we are immensely grateful for their trust and partnership.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to our correspondent expressed their gratitude to their benefactors for the empowerment skills and promised to utilize the knowledge gained into practice.