The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) has empowered 50 graduates of the Igarra Community Learning Centre in Edo State with vocational equipment to help them establish businesses.
The Acting Executive Secretary of NMEC, Dr John Edeh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja.
Edeh said the empowerment programme was organised by NMEC’s Department of Literacy and Development in collaboration with the Vocational and Continuing Education Department.
The event also featured the presentation of certificates to graduates trained in fashion designing, catering and event management, hairdressing, and local weaving.
He described the initiative as part of NMEC’s commitment to promoting vocational education and creating sustainable livelihoods through skills acquisition.
Edeh commended the traditional institution, the Igarra Community Development Initiative (ICDI), and residents for sustaining the centre. He noted that although NMEC has established 12 Community Learning Centres across the six geopolitical zones, the Igarra centre is the only one currently operating effectively and serves the entire southern region.
The acting executive secretary urged members of the public to take advantage of opportunities at the centre and advised beneficiaries to make productive use of the equipment. He added that NMEC would monitor them to ensure proper utilisation of the starter packs.
The Coordinator of the Igarra Community Learning Centre, Mrs Ahmadu Lamin, appreciated NMEC and the community for their support and commended the centre’s contributions to youth development.
The President of ICDI, Mr Michael Okara, said the centre, commissioned in 2017, was revived in 2025 through a partnership between the community and NMEC.
In a lecture titled “Skills for Self-Reliance: Empowering Communities Through Vocational Training,” Okara urged the graduates to value their skills, stating, “A certificate is good, but a skill is better because a skill cannot be stolen or retrenched.”
The Oshimidase of Igarra, His Royal Highness Otu Baja, lauded the Federal Government and NMEC for the initiative, noting that it has created opportunities for youths and women, reduced unemployment, and contributed to community development.
He urged beneficiaries to use the equipment to establish businesses, create jobs, and train others.
Outstanding graduates received items such as sewing machines, industrial ovens, complete hairdressing salon equipment, ring lights, and other vocational tools. The event also featured practical demonstrations by the graduates.
