On February 17, 2023, the AUN-Atiku Institute for Development (AID), held the close-out ceremony and distribution of business starter-pack materials for just concluded two-day rapid empowerment and skills acquisition training for 1000 women and youths of the Yola community.
The program, funded by the American University of Nigeria (AUN), was aimed at equipping vulnerable households and individuals, particularly women, with the soft skills and requisite knowledge required for entrepreneurship for wealth creation and economic growth the state.
The participants, who were trained, in cosmetology and food processing using hands-on and engaging practical demonstrations were presented with requisite materials at the successful completion of their training to get them started on establishing their businesses. The training sessions were conducted by professional instructors engaging participants in English, Hausa, and Fulfulde languages to enhance comprehension.
Speaking during the distribution of the starter kits to the 1000 participants at the University's Commencement Hall, Interim President, Professor Attahir Yusuf, applauded the participants' keen interest and enthusiasm towards the program. He stated that the program mirrors the AUN founder, H.E. Atiku Abubakar's vision of establishing a development institution fully committed to community service and development.
"We are a liberal arts university that offers a well-rounded education with notable emphasis on teaching, research, and community service. By teaching we gather information, process and disseminate the information through classroom interactions and instructions; by research we create knowledge, and by community service we make a difference in society and in the nation through service and entrepreneurship."
Professor Attahir further emphasized that the institution is committed to ensuring the continuity of the program, which will, in turn, have a lasting impact on the economic growth of society.
"This is one of the many programs in place which highlights the University's philosophy as an entrepreneurship focused institution with a mission to develop critical life skills and practical businesses for the benefit of the society. We are highly committed to the advancement of this program and we hope that in the next ten years, you will all blossom in your businesses."
Assistant Director of AUN Community Service, Mr. Ahmed Alhaji Aliyu, said empowering women and youths to become self-reliant is critical to building economic resilience in society.
"Investing in the empowerment of women, not only elevates the family unit but also generates a powerful ripple effect that drives the growth and prosperity of the economy as a whole."
Present at the ceremony were Dr. Audu Liman, Chief of Party, Atiku Institute; Professor Chris Mba, Dean of the Graduate School; Mrs. Nnenna Mosugu, VP of Finance; Dr. Lionel Rawlins, VP of Safety and Security and other members of the AUN community and visitors from outside.
Reported by Tina Bitrus