The Ekiti State Government has empowered 37 newly trained fashion designers and hairdressers with start-up equipment and financial support under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE).
At the graduation ceremony of the Second Chance Education Programme, held at the Aduni Olayinka Building in Ado-Ekiti, the Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, presented 24 sewing machines, 13 hair-drying machines, certificate of completion and ₦20,000 cash to each beneficiary.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to reducing unemployment through skills acquisition and economic empowerment, the First Lady urged the beneficiaries to maximize the items for productive use.
“I urge all of you to view these items not as giveaways but as tools of enterprise meant to create value, inspire dignity, and foster independence”. She said.
Dr. Oyebanji further noted that the government has established a monitoring and mentorship framework to ensure that graduates continue to apply their skills, expand their businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
Encouraging the women to embrace the future with courage and confidence, she added:
“Let your work speak of discipline; let your success speak of integrity. You are proof that education never ends and that missed opportunities do not have to define the future.”
In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye, explained that the one-year programme provided participants with both foundational education and practical vocational training.
In separate goodwill messages, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; the Special Adviser on Information, Rt Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun; and the Head of Service, Dr. Folake Olomojobi, encouraged the beneficiaries to build on their newly acquired skills and engage themselves productively.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Motunrayo Ologunja expressed gratitude to the state government and the AGILE Project for giving women and girls renewed hope and meaningful opportunities.
The empowerment initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote economic independence among women and strengthen community development.