UNICEF trains 720 out-of-school children in Kaduna on vocational skills

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has trained 720 out-of-school children in various vocational skills in Zaria LGA of Kaduna state.

Speaking on Wednesday during their  graduation at the emir of Zazzau’s palace, Wilfred Mamah, UNICEF’s representative, said the training was aimed at tackling the discrimination, violence and neglect experienced by children in the state.

Mamah noted that UNICEF, with the support of its partners, has empowered 3,760 girls and boys in Kaduna since 2022.

He said the training of the children in tailoring, bag and shoe-making, began three months ago with the hope to equip them with skills to escape vulnerabilities and poverty.

“No society can be said to be developed if her girls and women are neglected and incapacitated. We must work together to change the narrative,” said.

“Today, we are delighted to witness their successful graduation with professional skills in the high sought areas of shoe and bag-making.

“This proves to us once again that change is possible and that no barriers are insurmountable when opportunities meet commitment.”

He said up to 104,193 adolescent girls and 209, 950 Almajiri are in dire need of protection as many of them are on the streets, out-of-school, with little or no means of survival.

He called on the Zaria LG chairman, lawmakers representing the area in the state and national assembly to step in and support UNICEF to empower more children.

Mamah thanked the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Zaria local government and Ahmed Bamalli, emir of Zazzau, for championing the cause of child protection in the state.

“The COVID pandemic brought to the front burner the heightened vulnerability of children on the street, especially the Almajiri and adolescent girls who lack parental support and care,” he said.

“In our interaction with the Emir of Zazzau ( Ahmed Bamalli) on 21 November 2022 on the issue of Almajiri and Out-of School Children, with a view to reforming the Almajiri system, His Royal Highness emphasized the need to engage with community leaders and gave new insights around what it means to be ‘out-of school and to be literate.

“His Royal Highness advised that Almajiri children are not necessarily out-of school or illiterate. The skill of memorizing the Qur’an is a high indication of high capacity to learn.”

The emir commended UNICEF for the investment in children, noting that the community will continue to support the organisation to enable them carry out their work effectively.

“Permit me to express my dight in this terrific investment you have made in our children,” he said.

“The support and contributions of UNICEF in our community cannot be over emphasised. We appreciate you for what you have done in helping our community, and we will continue to support you.”