Learning New Skills

Finishing secondary school after West African Examination Council (WAEC) before securing admission into tertiary institution can sometimes take so many years, especially when one has not passed at credit levels the required subjects. This was the case of Kelvin Nkwangu, a 16 year old OVC who graduated from school about a year ago and has remained idle ever since while waiting to make up his papers and go back to school.

During home visit to the household, the CCMW discovered the boy and referred him to Cupid Designs, a vocational skills centre in Angwan Lambu, Apata for him to acquire knowledge on shoe making and management of shoe making business. “Kelvin is obedient, diligent, quick to learn new things, and very resourceful, ever since he came here, I have had little course to worry as he finishes most of the task given to him in little or no time” said Mr John Chinonso the Manager of the centre.

“It has been a wonderful moment for me, although I was faced with a series of challenges at first but I was encouraged by Mrs Jennifer Bulus, the CCMW who usually visit our house. Now I can make and design different kinds of shoes ranging from palm scandals, ladies shoes and Men co-operate shoes.” Kelvin said.

Currently, Kelvin charges between N 1000- N 4000 per shoe depending on the design and client. He makes about  10 -12 different kinds of shoes per month and makes between N 15,000 to N 20 000 per month which he uses the money for personal up keep and saves part for his future educational  endeavour.

Kelvin Nkwangu is one amongst several OVC who have been referred to access services across various services provided by Mashiah Foundation/STEER project supported by the USAID in Jos North LGA.