Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Ebonyi Senior Comrades Forum, a body of past union leaders has flagged off a two-day entrepreneurship training program aimed at empowering 200 students from various tertiary institutions across the state with practical business skills.
The intensive training, kicked off on Friday, July 25, 2025 in Abakaliki.
According to the Chairman of the forum, Barr. Chinedu Nwuze, the initiative was a strategic effort to complement the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, particularly in the areas of education and skill acquisition, as outlined in the “People’s Charter of Needs” policy.
Addressing participants, the chairman stressed the urgent need for students to become job creators in today’s competitive economic climate.
“This entrepreneurship training is not just an academic exercise. It is a vital intervention to prepare our youths with the skills, mindset, and knowledge needed to start and sustain businesses. I am a living witness, I benefited from this kind of mentorship, and today I am a lawyer and entrepreneur. What you gain here can sustain you for life,” he said.
The training featured practical sessions on dea generation and validation, business plan development, funding and financial literacy, legal and regulatory frameworks and mentorship and networking.
Speaking during the event,the Chairman of the Skill Acquisition program, Comr. Nwurukwu Olisa Alfred noted that most universities lack the facilities and manpower to teach entrepreneurship in a practical way.“Our students learn entrepreneurship in theory, but this training gives them real-life experience. We want them to go beyond the classroom and acquire practical knowledge that can change their lives,” he explained.
One of the notable speakers, Hon. Immaculate Ibe, a senior comrade and current Development Centre Coordinator of Afikpo North-East, encouraged the students to persevere through challenges.
“I once sold pears, charcoal, and other items to support myself through school. So don’t despise small beginnings. Keep pushing and never relent in your journey toward financial freedom,” she advised.
The SUG President of Ebonyi State University, Comr. Aliede Victor Aliede, lauded the initiative, saying: “I’m honoured to be here. It’s not easy to gather students and impact knowledge outside of academic learning. This is inspiring.”
Beneficiaries also shared their experiences. The Student Union President of Ebonyi State Science and Technology, Comr. Nwobashi Ernest Chukwudi, and Miss Nwuze Chinonso Bethel from Ebonyi State University, expressed gratitude for the life-changing lessons learned.
“Before now, I saw business only as a way to make money. But this training has taught me how to prioritize my needs, plan properly, and think creatively,” said Nwuze Bethel.
The Forum reiterated its commitment to youth development and promised continued support beyond the training.