DICI Calls for Government, Corporate Support to Sustain Free Summer Skills Training for Students
WARRI/Nigeria: Governments and corporate organizations have been urged to collaborate with non-governmental organizations in sustaining and expanding free training programs for students during summer holidays to prepare them for future economic opportunities.
This appeal was made by Dr. Rachael Misan-Ruppee, Executive Director of Development Initiative for Community Impact (DICI), at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Free Summer Fest Skills Acquisition Training in Warri, Delta State, on Tuesday, September 3.
The event, held at DICI’s headquarters, celebrated over 25 beneficiaries who completed the four-week program. The students, drawn from secondary and primary schools, acquired vocational skills such as soap making, coconut oil production, and packaging of potato and plantain chips.
In addition to these practical skills, the training provided entrepreneurial education, peace building, human rights awareness, and public speaking. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has continued to grow, offering hands-on training free of charge, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Dr. Misan-Ruppee, represented by the Programme Coordinator, Ms. Ayo Okotie, praised the students for their enthusiasm and commitment to learning.
“The Summer Fest training is designed to build the capacity of young students in entrepreneurial and social skills. We are proud to see its impact, as more students benefit from the program each year,” she said.
The Executive Director emphasized the importance of partnerships with the Government, multinational organizations, and philanthropists to help expand and sustain the free summer training program.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Precious Onoriodode and Chika Paul expressed their gratitude to DICI for the opportunity and pledged to put their newly acquired skills to practical use. They acknowledged the organization’s investment in ensuring the success of the training.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards and certificates to outstanding participants. Marvelous Onoriodode was awarded Best Behaved Participant, Miracle Okolie was recognized as the Most Punctual Participant, Chika Paul received the award for Most Resourceful Participant, while Precious Onoriodode was named the Most Participatory and Engaging Participant.
Additionally, special gifts were presented to Deborah Ugwu and Chika Paul for their exceptional contributions throughout the training.
The 2024 Summer Fest has once again proven to be a transformative platform, equipping young students with essential skills for the future.
