One of the beneficiaries of The Mercy Angel Foundation, being presented certificate upon completion of four months intensive training in Kaduna

A Kaduna-based NGO, ‘The Mercy Angel Foundation’, has graduated no fewer than 600 youths trained in various vocational and empowerment skills across the state.

Rev. Fr. Tunde Bolanta, the Founder of the foundation, disclosed this on Saturday during the graduation of the beneficiaries in Kaduna.

The beneficiaries, drawn from different religious and ethnic backgrounds, underwent four months of intensive training in fashion design, baking, bead-making, phone and computer repairs, hairdressing, soap making, among other vocations.

Bilanta said that the initiative was designed to equip youths with practical skills to promote self-reliance and socio-economic development.

He explained that the programme, which would span 18 months, was targeted at over 6,000 beneficiaries in its first phase and would cover about 14 thematic areas of specialisation.

According to him, the project is aimed at reducing youth restiveness by taking young people off the streets and empowering them to create self-employment opportunities.

He said: “I derive joy in making society a better place for our ever-growing population, so that individuals do not have to depend on others for sustenance.

“The Foundation has been involved in various philanthropic interventions, including health support, educational assistance and food distribution to vulnerable groups.

“This programme is inclusive and it cuts across faiths and tribes, in order to maximise its impact on the socio-economic development of Kaduna State.

“We shall be graduating more beneficiaries in the northern part of the state in two weeks.”

The founder further disclosed that the trainees would be provided with soft loans to enable them set up their businesses immediately after graduation.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Co-ordinator of the Interfaith Mediation Centre, Kaduna, Sheikh Nuraini Ashafa, commended the initiative, describing it as a major contribution to tackling unemployment.

Ashafa called on other religious leaders to emulate the gesture by prioritising empowerment and development initiatives.

One of the beneficiaries, Ms Pauline Simone, who was trained in fashion design, said the skills she acquired had already helped her earn income during the last Christmas season.

A beneficiary of the The Mercy Angel Foundation displays craft learned to dignitaries upon completion of a four months intensive training in Kaduna

Another beneficiary, Mr Noah Kasai, trained in cellphone and laptop repairs, expressed gratitude to the Foundation, noting that the programme would make youths more productive members of society.

The highlight of the event was the distribution of starter packs, including sewing machines and hairdressing equipment to selected beneficiaries through a raffle draw. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)