By Suleiman Shehu
Participants in the ongoing vocational training organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE) have described it as life-transforming.
The participants also commended the Federal Government and shared their vision and experiences in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Ibadan.
Dr Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant to the President on TVEE, said the training was aimed at equipping participants with practical, sustainable skills to unlock opportunities, strengthen livelihoods and achieve lasting economic empowerment.
NAN reports that the 10-day training focuses on graphics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), make-up artistry and fashion design.
Miss Soliu Balikis, a makeup artistry participant and a University of Ilorin mathematics graduate, said the opportunity opened a new path toward entrepreneurship and improved livelihood.
Balikis, who said she already had some basic knowledge of makeup before the training, said the theory and practice of the artistry had significantly expanded her skills and understanding.
“It has been a very interesting journey and a genuine transfer of knowledge,” she said.
According to her, the trainers ensure participants acquire practical skills to help them establish successful careers in the beauty industry.
“I teach mathematics. So now, combining teaching and makeup artistry will help me because I have been living only on salaries.
“I can’t wait to own my own space and become a very good makeup artist,” she said.
Another participant, Mr Akintunde Fabiyi, a teacher of Mathematics and Science, described his technological training as insightful.
He said his knowledge of digital tools, graphic design and AI had been broadened.
Fabiyi said he had been exposed to new concepts and technological tools, particularly design software for creating professional designs and developing brands.
He highlighted the importance of AI, noting that he now understands how to apply emerging AI tools in graphic design efficiently and productively.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for his effectiveness, adding that participants have already covered significant areas of technology and design in the last seven days.
Fabiyi, however, acknowledged that the 10 days for the training could not accommodate every aspect of the programme’s syllabus.
He said this had reinforced the need for participants to remain intentional about continuous learning and skill development after the training.
Fabiyi said he planned to “level up and scale up” by practising the skills acquired consistently, learning new techniques and taking advantage of opportunities.
He described his vision as improving his professional prospects and income while contributing to society and being a good ambassador of Nigeria.
Mr Ogunyemi Oduragbemi, a fashion design trainee, said he was once a fashion designer who went into trading because he could not afford his equipment.
Oduragbemi said he was excited that participants would be given equipment at the end of the training.
He said he could now combine trading with fashion design to enhance his income.
NAN reports that the training, with 200 participants, started on Sept. 28 in Ibadan and is scheduled to end on Friday. (NAN)
Edited by Moses Solanke
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