The Gyaikyor Seven Support Initiative (G7i), under the leadership of Professor Gabriel Akume of Benue State University, Makurdi, has called on youths in the state to embrace skill acquisition as a means of achieving self-reliance and contributing to societal development.
Professor Akume made the call on Sunday in Makurdi while presenting startup packs to beneficiaries of the skills acquisition and empowerment program during the fourth Annual General Meeting of the association.
He urged the recipients not to sell their tools but to make productive use of them by earning a livelihood and training others to expand the program’s impact.
The beneficiaries, selected with the help of traditional rulers from the seven council wards of the Gaav extraction in Konshisha Local Government Area, underwent training in welding and fabrication, carpentry and joinery, upholstery, and fashion design.
Professor Akume further announced that additional skills would be introduced in the next phase of the training.
In separate remarks, Kindred Head of Mbaashia, Chief Emmanuel Hanmaikul, Dr. Stephen Ashikegh, and Mr. Ishmael Agan praised the initiative, emphasizing that it would help steer youths away from social vices. They encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace hard work and honesty in their chosen trades.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Francis Akaayar expressed gratitude to G7i for the empowerment, calling on other individuals and organizations to support similar initiatives.
The beneficiaries received essential working tools, including welding machines, hand drills, hacksaws, toolboxes, hammers, sewing machines, and trade test certificates. Those who benefited from the program include Asom Aondongu, Akaayar Francis, Ukaa Andrew, Gajir Ashindi, Akaa Isaac, and Cynthia Terzurum.
The initiative is expected to foster youth empowerment and economic growth in the community, with plans to expand its reach in the coming years.