GRADUATION AND HANDOVER CEREMONY TO YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES IN T/A TSABANGO

As one way of promoting equal rights and inclusion for persons with disabilities, we provided vocational skills training to 40 youth with disabilities to empower them economically. The training focused on tailoring, which was their vocational choice. Thirty-seven youths graduated, comprising 11 males and 26 females, representing a 92.5% completion rate. Three individuals dropped out due to physical ill health and distance, comprising 2 males and 1 female. The beneficiaries who completed the training have been organized into six working groups, each allocated with start-up tools. This training was possible because of financial support from our partner Christian Blind Mission (CBM).

The graduation took place on July 4, 2024, at Ceyca Hall in the area of T/A Tsabango. Thirty-seven youths with disabilities and other vulnerable individuals received their certificates of attendance in tailoring and design. The certificates were presented by the SJOG Program Manager (Lilongwe Service) Dr. Mwawi Ng’oma and the Senior Chief Representative. About 90 people attended, including parents/guardians of the beneficiaries, Area Development Committee members, a Social Welfare representative, a Lilongwe District Disability Forum representative, a Ward Councillor representative, and the Senior Chief Representative. Start-up tools were also presented to the groups of beneficiaries, including 7 sewing machines, cotton fabric, polyester fabric, sewing threads, tape measures, machine oil, and sewing needles to support the initiation of tailoring shops in their various communities.