Graduation Ceremony Marks Milestone Achievement for Participants in Abuja Disability Colony
In a heartwarming display of empowerment and inclusivity, the Advocacy For Women With Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) celebrated the graduation of 20 women with disabilities from its vocational skills training program. The ceremony, held at the Karon Magiji Disability Colony in Abuja, marked a significant milestone in the journey towards economic independence and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.
AWWDI, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), embarked on a transformative initiative to equip women with disabilities with essential skills in tailoring, cosmetology, hairdressing, and poultry farming. Over a period of six months, participants received comprehensive training from industry professionals, enabling them to acquire valuable expertise and practical knowledge in their chosen fields.
Bilikisu Yakubu, the National Coordinator of AWWDI, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the graduates, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to promoting economic empowerment and inclusion for women with disabilities. With support from UNFPA, AWWDI provided participants with essential equipment such as sewing machines, hairdressing tools, generators, and kick-off funds to enable them to launch their businesses successfully.
“We trained them from scratch, nurturing their talents and capabilities so that they can stand on their own and excel using the skills acquired,” remarked Yakubu. She highlighted AWWDI’s vision for the participants to become employers of labour, not only for women with disabilities but also for women without disabilities, thereby fostering greater economic independence and empowerment within the community.
Yakubu also called upon the government to collaborate with Organizations Of Persons With Disabilities (OPDs) to provide funding and establish vocational centers tailored to the needs of persons with disabilities. She emphasized that this training program went beyond skill acquisition, as participants were also equipped with marketing skills, including online marketing strategies, to enable them to thrive in today’s digital economy.
Kolawole Jaiyeoba, the Program Manager of AWWDI, commended the graduates for their dedication and determination, assuring them of AWWDI’s continued support through monitoring and evaluation of their businesses. He encouraged them to strive for excellence and compete on a global scale, leveraging the skills and expertise they have acquired.
In his address, Sennen Hounton, the Regional Director of UNFPA, lauded the efforts of AWWDI and expressed UNFPA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and leave no one behind. He encouraged the graduates to seize the opportunities before them and embark on a journey towards a brighter future.
Eunice John, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude to AWWDI and UNFPA, revealing her aspiration to open a tailoring shop in Abuja. Another beneficiary, Mary Usman, pledged to excel in her business endeavors to provide for herself and her child.
Adebayo Idowu, the sole male beneficiary trained in poultry farming, shared his appreciation for the opportunity provided by AWWDI and UNFPA, emphasizing the transformative impact of the training on his life. He vowed to maximize his profits by implementing the skills learned during the extensive training program.
The event was attended by dignitaries from various organizations, including UNFRA, the National Human Rights Commission, WHO, Emir Of Karon Magiji and Representatives from Mandate Secretary, FCT Social Development Secretariat, NCPWD, Mandate Secretary, FCT Women Affairs, Mrs Adebayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Leaders of Disability among others.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of starter packs to the beneficiaries, accompanied by expressions of gratitude and celebratory dances.
As the beneficiaries embark on their entrepreneurial journey, they carry with them the collective support and encouragement of AWWDI, UNFPA, and the wider community. With determination and resilience, they are poised to make a meaningful impact and defy societal stereotypes, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
