At least 318 men and women graduated after completing 12-month vocational training courses in Juba on Wednesday.
They were trained in a range of skills including tailoring, hairdressing, electrical maintenance, and computer repair.
The one-year training program funded by the World Food Programme (WFP) and ForAfrica South Sudan, was conducted by four organizations; Egypt Academy, Life with a Purpose, Women Empowerment, and Daughter of Mary Immaculate.
The program is part of WFP’s Urban Safety Net Program aimed at addressing food insecurity and building resilience among vulnerable households through vocational training, urban agriculture, and other income-generating activities.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony held in Juba on Wednesday, Arkanjelo Wani, who represented the executive director of Juba County, urged the graduates to utilize the skills and knowledge acquired beneficially.
“All of us are going to benefit from these skills impacted in our people and the community is going to benefit,” he said. “You, the graduates must make good use of these skills you have acquired and extend these skills to benefit your families and communities.”
For his part, Leader Kwami, the County Director of ForAfrika South Sudan, said the program aims to provide food assistance and resilience to the most vulnerable urban population.
“Most importantly, we congratulate our trainees who have completed their vocational courses in various fields. You have shown resilience, dedication, and hard work in the face of many challenges,” he commended. “You have acquired valuable skills and knowledge that will help you improve your lives and contribute to your communities. You have made us proud and we are here to celebrate your achievement.”
Meanwhile, Zoirjon Sharipor, the WFP head of Urban Safety Nets, said, “Your celebration is success to all of us as my colleague said and WFP will always report on your success.”