Oct 7, 2008 - Joint Graduation Ceremony For Students Of The Skill Acquisition Centres
I join families, friends and well wishers to felicitate with the celebrants of today on this happy occasion of the joint graduation ceremony for students who have successfully completed their training programme at the various government-owned Skill Acquisition Centres across the State.
Let me congratulate all the graduating students and also commend them for their courage, commitment and perseverance throughout the period of their training. The skill and experience that you have acquired through the opportunity provided by the State Government in the various skill acquisition centres, are very invaluable. They are the weapons which you need to overcome the challenges of poverty and live a meaningful life.
It is however very important for you to know that the skill and training which you have received is not an end in itself but a means to an end. The challenge before you now is to translate the skill you have acquired into a successful business enterprise that will provide you and your family a source of livelihood and also employment opportunities for others. This is the only way by which the huge resources that have been invested in this programme by the State Government will be justified.
I therefore enjoin you to go into the business world with courage and hope. There are limitless opportunities for those who are hardworking, creative and passionately committed to their vocations. It is my prayer that God almighty will guide your steps and crown all your efforts with success.
To all the instructors whose efforts are being celebrated through the graduands of today, I say congratulations for a job well done.
Finally, I congratulate the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope Adefulire, the Permanent Secretary, Directors and the entire staff on this auspicious and very happy occasion.
Once again, I congratulate the graduating students and also use this opportunity to encourage all our young ladies and men to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the State Government to learn a vocation at any of the skill acquisition centres.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State