The Abia Union in South Africa says it will introduce skills acquisition, self-empowerment and sustainable growth for members.
The union’s National Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Onwuemenyi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on telephone from Johannesburg, South Africa that modalities for the implementation of the programmes would be worked during its National Convention.
Onwuemenyi said the convention would hold from March 31 to April 2 in Durban, KwazuluNatal Province of South Africa.
He said the union’s President, Mr. Chima Umealo, was determined to ensure that Abia indigenes and Nigerians in South Africa were empowered to become creative and self-employed.
“Our aim is to equip Abia indigenes and Nigerians in the Diaspora, especially those living in South Africa with skills necessary to enhance the economy of both Abia State, Nigeria and South Africa.
“The skills acquisition programme aims to develop the skills of members and to improve the quality of life of our people and their prospects for work.
“To improve productivity in the community and the competitiveness of business and to promote self-employment,’’ he said.
According to the secretary, the union will develop a programme to stimulate the formal economy and support skills development in small businesses.
“ The aim is to create employment, ensure sustainable livelihood and empowerment for youths in the state,’’ he said.
Onwuemenyi said the union would partner with the state government in its bid to develop all sectors of the economy.
He also said the union was willing to provide expertise for government in critical areas like education, science and technology, ICT, agriculture, health, environment and tourism. (NAN)