Some young ladies affected by the crisis in the North West Region who had undergone Vocational training at Youth Outreach Programme, YOP have been awarded certificates for completing their programme.

Graduating students

The certificate award ceremony took place on Thursday February 4 at the Alliance Française hall in Bamenda.

During the ceremony, the Programme Coordinator, Omer Songwe, called on the graduants, nine of whom had completed training in dress making and traditional dress embroidery to be conscious as they go out to start a new business.

YOP Coordinator with graduates

“I caution you to be time conscious and treat your customers with respect…a minute gone can’t be retrieved and lack of trust won’t speak well of you as a tailor, embroider or beads designer”.

Omer Songwe equally extended his appreciation to Mission 21 and the Delegation of Employment and Vocational Training for supporting YOP in achieving this initiative.

The representative of mission 21, Yvette Wango, applauded the efforts of the organisation.

“We have been providing assistance to displaced persons but realized the need to enhance their livelihood that will help them and their dependents. We thank Act Alliance and Kerk in Actie as well as Youth Outreach Programme, for their collaborative efforts in making this a success” Yvette said.

symbolic handing over of certificates

At the end of the ceremony, Kerk in Actie a faith base organisation provided the graduates with a sewing machine each to start with. They expressed their satisfaction as Yusi Honorine spoke on their behalf.

“We are thankful to YOP and its partners that amidst the challenges with the sociopolitical crisis and covid 19, we are here today celebrating. Our time at YOP has been impacted with knowledge. They supported us and provided us with training material and anti COVID-19 kits”. Yusi expressed.

The graduates after receiving their certificates were classified job creators by Mezam Divisional delegate of Employment and Vocational Training, Nju Christopher.

“With the skills that you have acquired from YOP Skills Centre, it makes you self reliant, diverse to job opportunities, job creation and allows you function effectively”.

It is hoped that as these batch of seamstresses go out, they will be able to use their skills for sustenance likewise train others too.

By Sandrine M.