By Emeka Chiaghanam
The Mercyseat Women and Youth Enhancement and Empowerment Foundation (MWYEEM) hosted a dynamic skills and knowledge-sharing event to mark International Youth Day 2024.
This initiative, themed "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development," held in Awka, Anambra State, with the goal of equipping young people with the digital competencies necessary for driving sustainable development and ensuring a prosperous future.
The event was organized in
collaboration with Rehoboth Ferd-Tech Academy, Build the Youth Potential
Initiative, Ecko Gardens Ltd, and the Nutrition Society of Nigeria. It featured
a series of expert-led lectures that contributed to the overarching themes of
youth and women empowerment, as well as sustainable development.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Nneka Mefoh, President and Founder of MWYEEM and the event convener, underscored the importance of the event. She emphasized that the program was designed to empower participants to elevate every aspect of their lives, extending beyond mere financial comfort. "This initiative focuses on nurturing your potential to become a force for positive change in your community," Dr. Mefoh stated. "Our vision is to create a new narrative where youth and women are not just recipients of aid but active agents of transformation."
Dr. Mefoh elaborated on the
program’s mission to inspire a shift from dependence to empowerment. "We
aim to cultivate leaders and supporters who uplift others. By equipping you
with the skills and mindset necessary for growth, this program fosters a culture
of mutual support and advancement, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to
the development of those around you. Ultimately, it’s about creating a ripple
effect where your personal growth sparks positive change in the community,
leading to stronger, more self-sufficient societies," she concluded.
One of the key speakers, Mr. Adekunle Asimiyu, an IT consultant, delivered a lecture titled "Digital World: Developing IT to Stay Ahead in a Rapidly Evolving World." He highlighted the increasing importance of digital literacy in today's world, emphasizing that proficiency in technology is no longer optional but essential for personal and professional success. "This program is dedicated to enhancing Information Technology skills, particularly among youth, empowering them to harness the full potential of digital tools for their benefit," Asimiyu said. "By improving digital literacy, individuals can unlock countless opportunities to make life easier, more efficient, and more connected."
Mrs. Obianuju A. Orjiekwe-Ezenkwele, a registered dietician with a strong passion for youth development, stressed the critical role of proper nutrition and healthy living in securing a prosperous future. In her presentation, she argued that investing in health today is essential for laying the foundation for a longer, more productive life.
She also warned of the severe consequences of poor nutrition and harmful lifestyles, which can lead to serious health conditions and limit an individual's ability to contribute positively to society. She emphasized the importance of adopting healthy habits, which can enhance productivity, mental and physical well-being, and extend life expectancy.
Mrs. Chiazo Winifred Okeke, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and Founder of Chiazorom Igbo Fluent Academy, presented a paper titled "How to Win in Life as a Young Man." She emphasized that true success begins with discovering what you love and building a life that brings comfort and fulfillment. Okeke stressed the importance of authenticity, meaningful relationships, and mental health in achieving and sustaining success in life. "Building meaningful relationships often begins with shared experiences and programs," she noted, reminding participants of the importance of family, friends, and mentors in their journey to success.
An Agriculture and Agroforestry Consultant, Mr Emeka Okoli, delivered a compelling presentation on "Creating Sustainable Employment, Job and Entrepreneurship Opportunities for the Youth Through Agribusiness and Agro-Tech." Okoli encouraged young people to enter the agriculture field, emphasizing that success in this sector requires hard work, starting small, and gradually scaling up.
He highlighted agriculture as a
unique platform for substantial growth within a short period, noting that it
doesn't require significant capital to begin. "Our food is our
medicine," Okoli remarked, urging youths to explore opportunities in
agriculture and contribute to a sustainable future while securing their own
livelihoods.
Echoing Okoli’s sentiments, Mr. John Anyiezugo Okafor, a Business Development Officer at Agro Market Square, emphasized the need for a value-added chain in agriculture. He reminded participants that success in agriculture is not achieved by chance but through dedication and passion, encouraging them to make a meaningful impact on their lives and communities.
In her presentation titled
"Formal Education as a Special Utility Vehicle for a Balanced
Lifestyle," Mrs. Ogochukwu Maryann Ikwuoma highlighted the broader value
of formal education beyond the accumulation of knowledge. She described formal
education as a cornerstone of personal and professional growth, equipping
individuals with the tools necessary to navigate life’s complexities and
achieve a balanced lifestyle. Okoye emphasized the importance of critical
thinking, socialization, and self-awareness as key outcomes of formal
education.
Chibuzor Amanchukwu, a graphic designer, led a session on "Graphic Design Using Canva." He encouraged the youth to explore graphic design as a potential income earner, describing it as a creative discipline that involves the visual communication of ideas and messages using typography, color, and layout. Amanchukwu underscored the importance of creativity and effective design in various aspects of life and work.
At the close of the event,
participants were awarded certificates, with Dr. Mefoh urging them to look
ahead and give true value to their certificates by actively applying the
knowledge and skills they had gained throughout the programme.
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