About 250 women and youths from Ethiope East and Okpe Local Government Areas of Delta have been empowered by the Dafinone Foundation.

The Chief Executive of the foundation, Chief Ede Dafinone, said at its 9^th graduation ceremony in Sapele, that the empowerment programme was aimed at reducing unemployment in the area.

The women and youths who were trained in tailoring, catering, hair dressing, welding/fabrication, aluminum work, electrical work and computer application, were given certificates and starter packs to engage in the various trades.

Dafinone, a chartered accountant, said that the foundation which came into existence in 2006 had so far empowered thousands of youths and 500 women in Sapele, Okpe and Jesse communities and environs.

He said that the foundation started with a microfinance scheme but later realised that many of the beneficiaries could not manage well the credits given to them, adding that the foundation then decided to offer the beneficiaries some skills so that they could be gainfully employed.

He said further added that the foundation expanded the scheme to include welding, aluminum work and others, to accommodate more people with different interests.

Dafinone urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the skills they acquired to earn their living and also train others in the various trades.

“Our vision is for you to find a better life through the skill empowerment. As you graduate today, use your skill to empower yourself, family and environment,” he said.

Ven. O. Oyibo of St. Luke’s Cathedral, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Sapele, commended the founder for his contribution to society and urged other people from the state to emulate him.

Oyibo also advised the beneficiaries to utilise the skills to better their lots and their communities.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Charity Umukoro, expressed her gratitude to the foundation and said she was now better empowered to cater for herself and the family.

Umukoro who described the founder as “a man who is always there to help the youths,” urged other Delta people to emulate him.

She also called on the State Government to encourage the foundation to enable it to empower more jobless youths in the area.

Mr Alfred Ofuafo who received training in welding and fabrication, said he was happy to no be skilled and was now equipped to work and take care of his family. (NAN)