In a remarkable stride towards youth empowerment and skills development, the Nasrul-lahi-li Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) Ejigbo branch, Lagos, recently graduated 100 students from its vocational training programme. The initiative, tagged the ‘Youth Sustainable Skill Training and Empowerment Programme,’ is part of NASFAT’s ongoing commitment to equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for economic independence.
According to Alhaji Bolarinwa Hakeem, chairman of NASFAT Ejigbo branch, the programme was designed to engage students during their long vacation, providing them with valuable technical and vocational training. He emphasized that skill acquisition is crucial to addressing the challenges of unemployment and fostering economic growth in Nigeria.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Hakeem highlighted the role of young people as the greatest change-makers and innovators if given the right opportunities. He acknowledged the hurdles many youths face today, including poor governance and leadership, which limit access to jobs and necessary skills. However, he stressed that skill-based education can bridge this gap and provide an alternative path to success.
“To raise employment among youths, skill-based training is needed to enable young people to make a smooth transition to work. This alternative educational path gives young people the chance to grow professionally and contribute to the country’s development,” Hakeem stated.
The Empowerment Secretary, Mrs. Kudirat Olaopoola, further explained the importance of the vocational programme, noting that it was designed to instill self-reliance in the younger generation. By offering formal, non-formal, and informal learning opportunities, NASFAT aims to equip youths with the practical skills needed to thrive in the modern job market.
“The technical education and vocational training programmes we offer fulfill the demand for skilled workers, reducing unemployment and dependency. We thank Allah for making this a success,” Olaopoola added.
Parents in attendance were full of praise for NASFAT’s efforts to ensure their children have a brighter future. One such parent, Alhaji Moshood Aliyu, applauded the programme and encouraged the graduating students to apply their newly acquired skills in meaningful ways.
“For many parents, this vocational training is an eye-opener. It reminds us that we should not limit our children to Western and Islamic education alone. In this era of limited white-collar jobs, exposing our children to skill acquisition early is essential for their self-reliance,” Aliyu said. He also commended the instructors for their dedication, expressing gratitude to NASFAT for this initiative that goes beyond prayer and focuses on securing the future of Nigerian youth.
NASFAT’s vocational programme is a testament to the organisation’s commitment to holistic development. Beyond its spiritual mission, NASFAT continues to play a pivotal role in empowering the next generation of Nigerians, ensuring that they are not only spiritually enriched but also economically equipped to succeed in a competitive world.
As these 100 graduates step into the world with new skills, NASFAT’s initiative stands as a beacon of hope, showing that with the right training and support, the youth can become the driving force behind Nigeria’s future growth and prosperity.