TAPP Phase II Beneficiaries Begin Vocational Training In Welding, Scaffolding

Beneficiaries of the second phase of the Tobin Akuro Prosperity Pathway (TAPP) Human Capacity Development Programme have departed for Port Harcourt to commence vocational training in industrial welding and scaffolding.

The trainees are among the 500 beneficiaries empowered under the second phase of the programme, which was launched across Okrika Local Government Area last week as part of the council’s commitment to youth empowerment and skills development.

Ahead of their departure, the Okrika Local Government Empowerment Committee held an orientation session for the beneficiaries at the Multipurpose Hall of the Council’s Secretariat to prepare them for the training.

Addressing the participants, Chairman of the Empowerment Committee, Hon. Kingsley Ibanichuka, urged them to be worthy ambassadors of Okrika Local Government Area by taking the opportunity seriously and remaining committed throughout the training.

He described the programme as a life-changing opportunity and assured the beneficiaries that the council would provide financial support throughout the duration of their training.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Chairman on Human Capacity Development, Hon. Adokiye Ogbogara, encouraged the trainees to be disciplined, respect their instructors, and give their best to excel in their chosen fields.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Hon. Akuro Tobin, for initiating the programme and providing them with an opportunity to acquire valuable vocational skills that will improve their livelihoods.

The industrial welding and scaffolding trainees will undergo their training at the Onshore and Offshore Safety Institute in Port Harcourt.

Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Ms. Gift Perebo, the only female participant in the welding and scaffolding category, said she was determined to excel and was not intimidated by the male-dominated profession.

She noted that she had never seen a female scaffolder in Okrika and expressed her desire to become the first, while thanking the Chairman of the Council for giving her the opportunity to pursue her ambition.

Other beneficiaries in various skill areas are also expected to report to their respective training centres, while participants in the beauty treatment programme are scheduled to commence their training on Monday.

• Anyanwu is the Information and Public Relations Officer, Okrika LGA.