Ondo Launches Second Phase of Women Empowerment Scheme, Targets 500 Beneficiaries
The Ondo State Government has commenced the second phase of its O’Datiwa Skill Up A Woman Initiative, a six-month free vocational training programme designed to empower 500 women across the state’s 18 local government areas.
Organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the initiative aims to equip participants with practical vocational and entrepreneurial skills that will promote self-reliance, job creation and economic growth.
According to the ministry, the first phase of the programme successfully trained and empowered 200 women, while the new batch expands the initiative to accommodate 500 beneficiaries.
Training will take place at seven designated centres located in Akure, Ondo West, Ifedore, Ikare, Owo, Irele and Ilaje local government areas. Participants will receive hands-on instruction in various trades, including catering, ICT, tailoring, interior decoration, hairdressing, bead making, soap and detergent production, tie-and-dye, Ankara and batik production, cake baking and pastries.
The Akure training centre, situated at the Mobile/Total Skills Acquisition Building of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development along Igbatoro Road, will offer courses in catering, ICT, interior decoration, tailoring, wig and bead making, as well as soap and detergent production.
The ministry noted that each training centre has been assigned specific courses based on local needs, with coordinators appointed to supervise the programme and provide support to participants.
As part of the enrolment process, a screening and verification exercise has been scheduled to hold at the ministry’s headquarters opposite the Arcade on Igbatoro Road, Akure. Prospective participants are required to present a passport photograph alongside a photocopy of either their National Identification Number (NIN) slip or Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC).
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, said the initiative reflects Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to empowering women and promoting inclusive development across Ondo State.
She expressed confidence that the programme would strengthen the entrepreneurial capacity of beneficiaries, create employment opportunities and contribute to poverty reduction.
Osamaye also commended the wife of the governor, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, for her continued support for women-focused empowerment programmes in the state.
She encouraged eligible women to take advantage of the opportunity, stressing that providing women with marketable skills remains a key priority of the administration and will enable beneficiaries to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of their communities.
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