Governor Chukwuma Soludo emphasized the importance of skill acquisition for youth empowerment, highlighting his administration’s “1Youth, 2Skills” Solution Initiative as a key driver of this vision. Soludo spoke at the official opening and 2023/2024 matriculation ceremony of the Agulu Progressive Vocational Academy (AVA), a vocational training institution approved by the National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB).
In his address, delivered by the Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Soludo expressed confidence that skill acquisition programs would lead to meaningful employment for youth across Anambra State, aligning with the Igbo values of hard work and diligence. He noted, “Skills are what truly drive progress in the world.”
Chief Oliver Afamefuna, President General of the Agulu Progressive Union, explained that AVA aims to guide community youth toward sustainable careers. He commended the contributions of Agulu residents and emphasized that the academy is open to all youth in Anambra, complementing the governor’s efforts to promote skills-based education.
Dr. Emmanuel Duezeh, Director of AVA, shared the academy’s mission to be a beacon for skill development, noting financial constraints as a challenge in meeting operational needs.
The ceremony included a lecture by Professor Joseph Okoye on the benefits of vocational skills. A total of 94 students matriculated, enrolling in diverse programs like footwear and bag making, ICT, hairdressing, fish farming, plumbing, electrical work, and more. The courses are set to last for one year and six months, equipping students with practical skills tailored to the job market.
