The 33rd annual general meeting/conference of the Oron Development Union ODU-USA may have come and gone. But what may not be easily erased from the minds of the participants is the call made by Honourable Justice Okon Efreti Abang on the need for a coordinated training template for the youths of Oro Nation.
In a thought-provoking address at the event, Justice Okon Abang, a respected jurist of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, called for a definite plan for the organic training of Oro youths.
Delivering his speech as the Special Guest of Honour, Justice Abang emphasized the importance of investing in skills training programmes that would empower the youths with the knowledge, competencies, and confidence needed to excel in an increasingly competitive job market.
Justice Abang highlighted the pivotal role that skill training plays in empowering individuals and communities.
He noted that vocational training programmes in areas like technology, craftsmanship, or entrepreneurship enable individuals to acquire specialized skills that are in demand in the job market, thereby boosting their employability and fostering self-reliance and confidence.
Aband said that at the community level, skill training initiatives can drive economic development by creating a pool of skilled workers who can support local businesses and innovation.
He acknowledged the challenges that skills training programmes face, including the mismatch between the skills imparted and the needs of the labour market, limited access to quality training facilities, inadequate funding, and a shortage of qualified trainers.
Despite these challenges, Okon Abang pointed out opportunities for growth and development in skills training, such as the increasing demand for digital skills, public-private partnerships, and online learning platforms.
The respected jurist stressed the importance of prioritizing the training of Oro youths, who are the leaders of tomorrow.
He noted that the Akwa Ibom State Government has established two Skills Acquisition Centres: the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC) and the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre (Ibom-LED), where young people can acquire skills and knowledge in various areas, including agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship.
He commended local government chairmen from Oro Nation who have sponsored youths to various trainings in these centres and acknowledged the EMOIMEE Skills Acquisition Training Scheme, which is currently providing training for 100 youths, men, and women of Oro.
Drawing conclusions from his observations, Justice Abang called on stakeholders and leaders of Oro Nation to institute a definite plan for a more organic training of youths.
He advocated for a concrete arrangement where all stakeholders can contribute to get it done, emphasizing the need for technical education and prioritizing the training of youths in emerging technologies, entrepreneurship, and vocational skills.
He also urged stakeholders to provide opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship, working together to create a future where every young person has access to quality skills training that prepares them for the demands of the global modern workforce.
