Anambra VSTP Beneficiaries Receive Starter Packs To Launch Businesses

By Nwanneka Nwokedi

Beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Vocational and Skill Training Programme, VSTP, in Anambra State have received starter packs to enable them establish businesses and apply the skills acquired during their training.

The distribution, which began on August 11, was supervised by officials of the National Social Investment Programme Agency, NSIPA, led by Anadu Ijeoma Anita, alongside the state programme officer.

The exercise covered training centres including the Federal Youth Centre, Mgbakwu; His Promise School of Vocational Training, Awka; Metallurgical Training Institute, Onitsha; and Government Technical College, Umueri.

The starter packs included sewing machines, vulcanising machines, mechanical toolboxes, masonry equipment, catering utensils, housekeeping tools and other materials relevant to the beneficiaries’ trades.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, saying the combination of free training and start-up equipment would enable them turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods.

One beneficiary, Obidike Patrick, said the vulcanising machine would allow him to start his business immediately, while Chiamaka Orajiaka, a baking trainee, said the programme enabled her to acquire professional skills she could not previously afford.

Another beneficiary, Tarry Francisca Ibe, said receiving a sewing machine had removed a major barrier to starting her own tailoring business.