The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, the Rt. Rev. Dr. James Olusola Odedeji, has underscored the importance of skill acquisition for anybody desiring economic emancipation, despite the challenges that may come with it. He described learning a professional skill as fulfilling God’s purpose.
He made the observation while giving a keynote address at the second graduation ceremony of the Diocese’s Vocational and Skills Acquisition Centre. The event took place at the Caroline Adefiola Adebiyi Conference Centre, Ipaja, Lagos, on Thursday, August 6.
Free training
About 78 students graduated from the centre, having been trained free of charge by the diocese. They acquired various skills, including Catering, Tailoring, ICT/Computer Studies, Hairdressing, Photography, and Barbing.
Describing vocational training as a challenging yet rewarding journey, the bishop said success in any profession requires patience, integrity, punctuality, respect for others, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. While acknowledging the importance of certificates, he stressed that they should not be regarded as the ultimate measure of achievement.
”A certificate can be placed in a folder, but the real value of functional training is reflected in the trainee’s capacity, confidence, consistency, character, and competence,” he said
Guard your integrity
The bishop further noted that professional skills align with God’s purpose for humanity, adding that the Church is called to make both spiritual and positive societal impacts. He encouraged the graduands to embrace lifelong learning by seeking mentorship, observing best practices, striving for excellence, and continually upgrading their skills to remain relevant in a changing world.
”Always strive for quality because it protects your reputation, builds trust, and attracts better opportunities. Guard your integrity; do not compromise. Integrity is not a luxury, but the foundation of lasting success. God honours character,” he admonished.
Pursue independence
In her remarks, the wife of the bishop, initiator of the vocational centre, and President of the Diocese of Lagos West Women and Girls’ Organisation, Dr. Lydia Odedeji, urged the graduates to pursue independence in every area of their lives. She advised them to place God at the centre of all their endeavours, reminding them that integrity should remain their guiding principle.
Some of the graduands expressed gratitude to the diocese for the opportunity, noting that the training had transformed their lives, equipped them with valuable vocational skills, and enhanced their self-reliance.
Calibre of students
The training lasted for nine months. The graduating class comprised retired school principals, unemployed youths, professionals, and other less-privileged members of society.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the graduation oath, presentation of certificates, and the conferment of special appreciation awards on Bishop James Odedeji and Dr. Lydia Odedeji by the graduating students.
The event was attended by administrators, pioneer supporters of the vocational centre, members of the Ladies Christian League of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church, representatives of various women’s guilds, parents, and other well-wishers.