ST. JOSEPH THE WORKER YOUTH CENTRE CELEBRATES GRADUATION IN GRAND STYLE
From Felix Chrisantus Dame
It was an atmosphere of gratitude, achievement, and hope as the St. Joseph the Worker Youth Vocational Training Centre in Taraba State held its graduation ceremony at the school premises in Jauro Yinu Ardo-Kola Local Government Area.
The event marked a significant milestone for the youths who have successfully navigated two years of intensive vocational and moral training.
The ceremony commenced with the Celebration of the Holy Mass, presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Charles M. Hammawa.
In a poignant Homily, the Bishop emphasized that the mission of the Church extends beyond the pulpit and into the very fabric of societal development.
“Preaching the Truth is the antidote to societal mishaps,” the Bishop remarked. “The Social Gospel and the dignity of the human person demand that we empower people through charity while teaching them to be charitable in return.”
The Bishop further clarified that the Centre operates as a non-profit mission, driven by the Church’s responsibility to serve society and ameliorate the hardships faced by the youth.
Taking a moment to address the broader socio-economic landscape, His Lordship issued a clarion call to the government.
He challenged leaders to reinvigorate their efforts toward youth empowerment, stressing that while the Church is doing its part, the government must scale up its interventions to reach more citizens.
A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of the Centre’s collaboration with formal regulatory bodies.
Samuel Lautoni, the Head of Department (HOD) for Skills Development, expressed his gratitude to the institution for its strategic partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
This partnership ensures that graduates do not just leave with local recognition, but with Trade Certificates of Competence that are internationally recognized, opening doors for the youths to compete in the global labor market.
Representing the student body, the Senior Prefect, Bro Timothy, delivered an emotional address, reflecting on the resilience and determination required to complete the intensive two-year program.
He urged his juniors to stay the course, affirming that the journey is demanding, but the reward of a skill is a lifelong asset.
Closing the event, Mr. Michael Maimako offered a vote of thanks, praising the benefactors whose support made the training possible.
He charged the graduates not to let these skills sit idle, but that they should go out into the world and put what they have learned into practice to build a better future.
As the ceremony concluded with cheers and the presentation of certificates, the atmosphere was one of hope.
The St. Joseph Youth Vocational Training Centre does training in various skilled trades, including technical works, building, carpentry, and other handcrafts, reflecting the centre’s commitment to equipping youths with employable skills that promote dignity of labour and sustainable livelihoods.
