By Lekan Adejuwon
At least 150 indegenes drawn from various communities in Ajoni LCDA benefitted from a life changing training program organised by the council Chairman, Prince Michael Oluwadare Ogungbemi in partnership with an American Non Governmental Organization- Interweaves Solutions International, USA as they were issued certificates by the organisation.
The epoch making event held on Friday at the Governor’s Conference Hall in Ado Ekiti was a watershed in human capital development in the state providing a new definition in grass roots development.
In a short address to the elated graduands, the Ajoni LCDA Council Chairman, Prince Ogungbemi held that the brain behind the laudable initiative was to domesticate and apply the principle of Human Capital Development and Job Creation, one of the cardinal pillars of Biodun Oyebanji led administratio at the grassroots.
To this end, he said; “The management of Ajoni Local Council Development Area under my leadership engaged the productive partnership with INTERWEAVE SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL, an American based non governmental organization to lift market men and women, small & medium scale enterprise, young entrepreneurs out from poverty to prosperity.
According to him, “Interweave Solutions International, USA is an organization that is impacting lives with its well designed Self Reliance training modules in over 74 countries Worldwide, with Nigeria toping the list of Nations with a total graduate of the MBS certification of more than 50,000 students in about 27 states in the Country.
His words; “You will recall that the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaja (Dr.) Abibat Adubiaro flagged off the training modules on the 18th of May, 2023 where she enjoined the participants to be worthy ambassadors of the state.
“It is with great pleasure and excitement that I stand here today, in front of all of you, as we celebrate the culmination of the training module.
“I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Today marks a significant milestone in your journey of personal and professional growth. You have dedicated your time, effort, and unwavering commitment to this training, and it is clear that your hard work has paid off.
“Throughout this module, we have witnessed your determination and resilience. You have overcome obstacles, embraced and learnt new challenges, and pushed yourselves beyond your comfort zones. Your eagerness to learn and your willingness to step outside of your familiarity zone is truly commendable.
“During this training, you have gained new knowledge, acquired valuable skills, and developed a deeper understanding of your field. But beyond that, you have also built meaningful connections with your fellow participants. The friendships and networks you have formed are invaluable, as they will continue to support and inspire you in your future endeavors.
“Remember, this graduation is not an end, but rather a new beginning. As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, armed with the tools and experiences gained through this training, dare to dream big, set audacious goals, and passionately pursue your ambitions.
“There will undoubtedly be challenges along the way, but embrace them as opportunities for growth. Remember the resilience you have demonstrated during this training, and let it be the foundation for your future success.
“Always remember the importance of continuous learning and personal development. Keep evolving, seek out new knowledge, and never settle for mediocrity. The world is constantly changing, and it is up to you to stay ahead of the curve.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the trainers, mentors, and everyone involved in making this training module a resounding success. Your dedication, expertise, and unwavering support have played a pivotal role in shaping the journeys of these graduates. Thank you for believing in them and guiding them every step of the way.
“To the graduates, congratulations once again on this remarkable achievement. Go forth, make a difference, and leave your mark on the world. The future belongs to you, and I have no doubt that you will shine brightly.
“As a government, we on our part will continue to play our role in providing opportunities and opening up our locality to the international communities and possibly donor agencies as to help ameliorate the poverty bitting hard at the local level and leaping our people to prosperity.
“Today, I present to you these crop of young entrepreneurs ready for graduation”. He concluded
In a related development, co-founder and Executive Director, Interweaves Solutions International, Mr Dean Curtis at a press chat expressed delight to be in Ekiti for the first time
According to him, “The purpose of this training is to help people become self reliant, to move people from poverty to prosperity and we believe we can help people understand simple basis of business principles through which they can organise their own businesses in their communties and make plans for their own lives to make them to be self reliant”
He described Ajoni LCDA Council boss in glowing terms saying; “I’m meeting him for the first time today but I would say, he’s such a kind man, very brilliant and homely. He was the first Local Chairman in all Nigeria that has adopted the program and we are really pleased with his work ethics. He’s been super”. He said
One of the graduating students, Prince Olusola Famoroti in a separate interview said the training has impacted positively his life.
“This particular training has prepared us for the future, to move us from poverty to prosperity. The training has taught us on how to manage our income and to be self reliant”
He explains further on the modules of the training;
“During the course of the training we were taught how to start a small scale business and that was why we were given certificates today which has prepared us for the future especially as the organizers of the training have promised to give us start up capital to which we are eternally grateful to the Chairman of Ajoni LCDA PMO for giving us this lifetime opportunity” he said
