North-West adults get a boost, as commission empowers learners with essential resources

History was again made in Kaduna on Monday as the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education, empowered a myriad of adult learners with an array of starter packs to establish their own businesses.

The epochal event, which was held in Kaduna, was organized by the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof. Musa Garba Maitafsir, said that the graduands were drawn from across the North-West region.

Prof. Maitafsir said that the invaluable gesture was extended to the graduates under the second phase of the “Literacy Economic Empowerment and Strategy -LEEDS” Initiative of the commission.

According to him, they have acquired vocational skills in trades like beauty and cosmetology, fashion and design and home economics.

The Executive Secretary said, “Through this programme, we are not only recognizing your achievements, but we are also equipping you with starter packs to launch your own businesses.

“This is for you to become financially independent and contribute to your communities.”

Prof. Maitafsir added that they are no longer just learners, but entrepreneurs, creators and agents of change.

He added that the initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 4,5, and 8, which, among others, seek to empower all women and girls.

Prof. Maitafsir also stated that it resonates with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that emphasizes human capital development, poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth.

He added, “By empowering adult learners with practical skills and tools for self-reliance, we are contributing to a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria.

“The event is also part of the Ministerial Strategic Plan of the Federal Ministry of Education, which prioritizes access to quality education, skills acquisition and the revitalization of adult and non-formal education.

“The event is part of the second phase of LEEDS, and many learners had already been empowered across the country.”

Prof. Maitafsir added that the success of the initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision and commitment.

The Executive Secretary urged the beneficiaries to let the empowerment be the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and the prosperity of the North-West and Nigeria in general.

Prof. Maitafsir also urged them to use their skills wisely to build with integrity and inspire others to follow their footsteps.

He extolled the unwavering commitment of the facilitators, partner agencies and staff in ensuring the success of the event.

Prof. Maitafsir further urged, “Let us push boundaries and redefine what is possible through adult and non-formal education.

“Together, we are building a Nigeria where literacy leads to livelihood and where every citizen, regardless of age or background, has the opportunity to thrive.”

The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education, who described the day as historic, commended the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education for organizing the invaluable ceremony.

He said that the gesture marked another milestone in the collective journey to strengthen economic opportunities across Northern Nigeria.