In a joyous celebration of skills and achievement, the Kofyar Hill Settlement in the Meryang mountains of Quan Pan Local Government Area in Plateau State marked a significant milestone with the graduation ceremony for vocational skills students. The event, which held on August 24, 2023, was a testament to the commitment of Gerda Henkel Stiftung Foundation at bringing socio-economic revival to the abandoned Kofyar Hill settlement and its surrounding communities.
The broader project titled “Socio-economic revival of Kofyar Hill Settlement” set its sights on uplifting the rural mountainous settlement and its surrounding areas, including Pankurum, Male and Longsel. The vocational skills training programme was a pivotal component, offering training in essential trades such as carpentry, electrical works, masonry, tailoring and more.
Remarkably, the programme also sought to revive endangered traditional skills such as thatching, weaving and pottery, preserving cultural heritage while creating economic opportunities.
Dr. Olukoya, the project coordinator, graced the event, affirming the commitment of the Vernacular Heritage Initiative. He proudly presented the graduating candidates with the tools of their trade, emphasizing their potential to embark on fruitful career paths.
Olukoya also revealed plans to collaborate with the ministry of labour to ensure the participants’ certificates are duly registered, enabling them to access gainful employment if they so desire. He underlined the project’s additional objectives, including rainwater harvesting and the construction of a community centre, indicating that discussions with the funders were ongoing in this regard.
The Long Kofyar, Chief John Datok, addressed the graduates, encouraging them to take their newfound skills seriously and expressing profound gratitude to the Gerda Henkel Foundation for their unwavering support. Representing the Long Kwa, Chief Ignatus Didel and Mr. Panyam, also extended words of encouragement and appreciation to the graduates.
Parents of the graduates took the opportunity to convey their heartfelt thanks to the Gerda Henkel Foundation, recognizing the life-changing impact of the vocational training programme on their children’s lives.
The event climaxed with traditional dances, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the community and the graduates’ talents. It was a moment of pride, not just for the graduates but for the entire Kofyar Hill Settlement. Certificates and work equipment were presented to the graduates. Dr. Olukoya, alongside the trainers, handed out these valuable tools, symbolizing the graduates’ readiness to contribute to their community and economy.
For the Kofyar Hill Settlement and its neighboring communities, there is hope for a better tomorrow.