By Emma Elebeke

The Lawmaker representing Lagos east Senatorial District, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, recently held the second convocation ceremony for beneficiaries of his free ICT training institute at Magodo Estate, Lagos last week. Over 30 students graduated from the programme.

The Senator said that youth empowerment is one of the cardinal points of his agenda, which formed the basis of introducing the ICT training for the benefit of those that are non computer literate in his constituency.

In his opening speech, the law maker emphasized the importance of computer literacy in the society, especially to the youths.

“Knowledge remains the currency of the 21st century. The pursuit of knowledge in contemporary Information Technology holds the promise of transmitting youth unemployment to youth empowerment by identifying, nurturing and equipping youths with marketable skills and entrepreneurial capabilities. To remain competitive in today’s business world, we as a people must continue to seek knowledge and retrain our youths and adults alike,” said the senator.

The convocation ceremony witnessed 30 participants across the five local governments and eleven LCDAs under the Senatorial district.

In the words of a representative of the students, ”We are bold to say that this programme has literally changed our lives within the period spent so far, it has enabled us in enhancing our knowledge about Information Technology(ICT), my comrades and I can now boldly beat our chest confidently when it comes to computer appreciation. Hopefully this will break a new grounds for more opportunities” he concluded.

The ICT graduants had been taught various aspects of computer applications, these include but not limited to: Microsoft word, Microsoft Powerpoint, Microsoft Excel, internet application and printing Operations e.tc

For the purpose of encouraging hardwork and the importance of knowledge the senator gave out a brand new laptop for the top three students. They are Miss Balogun Rihanat From Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Mr Efetobore Emiyede from Ikorodu West LCDA and Mr Bashir Owolabi from Imota LCDA, and some cash gifts to all the participants.