The ARS Entrepreneurship Empowerment Foundation has successfully trained numerous young Nigerians in vocational and entrepreneurial skills as part of efforts to combat unemployment and foster self-reliance. The initiative culminated in a graduation ceremony for a 12-week intensive vocational training programme, where beneficiaries received business support and equipment to establish or expand their enterprises.
Programme Background and Inspiration
The empowerment programme was established in memory of Ajibade Sharon, a young entrepreneur who passed away in 2023 at the age of 18. Chairman of the Foundation, Dr Solomon Ajibade, stated that the vocational training programme directly tackles unemployment by equipping beneficiaries with practical skills and start-up support. Graduates are provided with tools and equipment, including sewing machines, to launch their businesses. The initiative is funded through donations from friends, supporters, and the public. Dr Ajibade expressed optimism that the programme would eventually operate year-round and urged more young Nigerians to enrol and acquire vocational skills for economic empowerment.
Call for Greater Support
Executive Director of the ARS Foundation, Ajibade Oluwatoyin, appealed for increased support from government, corporate organisations, and well-meaning Nigerians to expand the foundation's vocational and entrepreneurial empowerment programmes. Olanike explained that the initiative was created in memory of her late daughter, Sharon Ajibade, a former 100-level accounting student at Bowen University, whose death inspired the family to transform their grief into service. Initially targeting young people, the foundation later expanded its scope after receiving applications from older individuals seeking vocational skills to improve their livelihoods. She noted that distance, inadequate facilities, and limited funding remain major challenges, stressing the need for a permanent training centre capable of accommodating trainees, including vulnerable groups and orphans. Olanike also highlighted that public distrust of charitable organisations has made fundraising difficult, despite the foundation's transparency and impact. She urged government agencies to partner with credible foundations by providing funding, publicity, and policy support, while encouraging parents to nurture children with entrepreneurial talents and innovative ideas.
Training Details and Outcomes
Training Coordinator Adebukola Coker revealed that participants received instruction in catering, shoe and bag making, tailoring, makeup, fascinator production, and tie-and-dye. Although more than 100 individuals initially registered, approximately 70 completed the programme. Beneficiaries were also taught product branding, pricing, negotiation, and online marketing to enhance their business prospects.
