Chief Favour Izoukumour, the Executive Director of Social Services (EDSS) in the Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, was among speakers at the intervention agency's Skill Academy graduation ceremony that held at the PTI Conference Center in the Effurun axis of the State on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.

Recall that the ceremony which was organised to send forth the fourth batch of 195 graduands in vocations of Catering and Confectionary, Fashion Design, Hair Dressing and Makeover, Welding and Fabrication, Software and Hardware Development; POP, Tiling and Interlocking, and Electrical Installation and Repairs, was well attended by a representative of the governor of the State, traditional rulers, DESOPADEC officials, members of its mandate oil producing areas, among others.

Among other speakers who mounted the podium to address graduands include the Special Adviser on DESOPADEC, Rt. Hon. Basil Ganagana who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor; and Chairman of DESOPADEC, Chief John Nani.

In his brief speech presentation, Chief Izoukumor who aims at motivating the graduands highlighted the purpose of the DSA scheme and the need for them to employ the knowledge and skills they have gained in the course of their training to transform their communities and the world at large, among other motivational sayings. Here are 10 brief extracts (snippets) from the speech of the EDSS, worthy of note that might also help motivate you to excel in business and social life.

SNIPPET 1: DSA'S VISION IS EMPOWERMENT  
The DESOPADEC Skills Academy was established with the vision of empowering individuals like yourselves with the requisite knowledge and tools that will enable you to thrive in today's competitive world.

SNIPPET 2: CREATE LASTING IMPACT
It is important to recognize the transformative power of skill development. You have acquired valuable skills in various fields... These skills are not just for personal gain but should be seen as tools to uplift your communities, contribute to societal development, and create a lasting impact.

SNIPPET 3: EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS 
Each of you has a unique story, a unique set of talents, and a unique purpose. Embrace your uniqueness and let it guide you as you navigate the path ahead.

SNIPPET 4: IMPACT LIVES POSITIVELY
Remember that success is not measured solely by material wealth or societal recognition, but by the impact you make in the lives of others and the positive change you bring to the world around you.

SNIPPET 5: EMBRACE CHALLENGES
As you step into the next phase of your journey, there will be challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. But I implore you to embrace these obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Let them fuel your determination and inspire you to push beyond your limits.

SNIPPET 6: BE THE NEXT TRANSFORMATIVE CHANGE MAKERS
Remember that the greatest achievements often arise from the most difficult circumstances... we believe the next, Aliko Dangote’s Otedola’s, Elumelu’s and even global luminaries like Billgate and Warren Buffet are among this set of 2023 graudaunds who will be the next transformative change makers and entrepreneurs.

SNIPPET 7: NEVER STOP LEARNING
I want to advise our granduands to never stop learning. The world is constantly evolving, and it is essential to stay curious, adaptable and open to new knowledge and experiences. Seek out opportunities for continuous growth and improvement, both personally and professionally.

SNIPPET 8: BE PREPARED
Embrace lifelong learning as a mindset, and you will always be prepared to face whatever challenges or opportunities that will come your way.

SNIPPET 9: YOU'RE WEAPONISED TO TRANSFORM SOCIETY
I leave you with a quote from Nelson Mandela, who said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." You have been equipped with this powerful weapon through the DESOPADEC Skills Academy. Now, it is your responsibility to use it wisely, with passion and for the betterment of society.

SNIPPET 10: BELIEVE IN YOURSELVES 
You have shown immense dedication, perseverance, and resilience throughout this program. As you move forward, remember that the DESOPADEC team and your fellow graduates are there to support and guide you. Believe in yourselves, trust in your abilities, and never forget the impact you can make in this world.

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