The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Rose of Sharon (ROS) has graduated not less than 99 students from its Christian Social Responsibility (CSR) Vocation School, at a grand graduation ceremony event held at its prestigious GRA Ikeja parish, over the weekend.
The CSR Vocation School, now in its sixth year, has successfully graduated talented individuals after an intensive nine-month skill acquisition vocational training programme, all at no cost to the participants. The school which has held three graduation ceremonies over the years offers participants the opportunity to learn various skills, including Textile Design, Digital Marketing, Catering, Hairdressing, Makeup/Gele Tying, and Fashion Designing, among others.
To empower the graduates in their entrepreneurial journeys, the church awarded the best graduating students from each of the five vocations a grant of N200,000 to kickstart their careers. The second best graduating students were also given a grant of N100,000 each, while reward of N100,000 was each given to two best performing Instructors of the school to motivate them to do more. In total, the church provided N1,700,000 in financial support to these graduates and their instructors.
During the graduation ceremony, Senior Pastor-in-Charge of RCCG Rose of Sharon, Emeka Obiagwu, delivered an inspiring charge, urging graduates and attendees to cultivate unwavering focus, dedication, and a strong work ethic in the pursuit of their life goals. He emphasized the importance of delivering excellent service and highlighted that skill is just as valuable as one’s character.
Speaking on the topic, “You Are A Champion (1 Sam 17: 50 – 52),” he reminded everyone that they possess the qualities required to excel in their chosen paths. He encouraged the graduates to serve as exemplary ambassadors of their training and to seize the opportunity they’ve been given to transform their lives positively.
In his keynote address, Pharmacist Ochuko Omaruaye shared valuable insights on entrepreneurship. He stressed the competitive nature of the market and the importance of consistently improving service quality. Omaruaye emphasized the significance of building a loyal client base and ensuring customer satisfaction to generate referrals. He also discussed the benefits and pitfalls of utilizing social media for advertising services.
Earlier in her opening speech, Pastor Rosemary Fowler, the minister in charge of RCCG Rose of Sharon CSR, expressed her delight and pride in the graduates’ accomplishments. She highlighted the profound impact of skills development and community empowerment.
Speaking on the purpose for the training, she revealed, “The CSR Vocational School is our attempt at empowering people with vocational skills to enable them contribute meaningfully to society, earn a decent living and become financially independent through the provision of excellent services. The school is open to members and non-members of the church regardless of their ethnic or religious inclinations,” she revealed.
Best graduating students from the CSR vocation include Nwonse Millicent Chioma (Fashion Design), Adebayo Florence Chinedu (Catering), Akinola Kemisola (Make-up), Idara Joy Mayor (Digital Marketing), and Bamidele Victoria (Hairdressing).
Joy Mayor, a participant in the Digital Marketing program, expressed her gratitude, stating, “I want to thank everyone and the sponsors of this program. This opportunity is rare considering the fees others charge for teaching digital marketing. I’ve learned about the power of the internet and how to use it to our advantage.”
Another participant, Arowolo Ayomide, shared, “I want to thank RCCG and the CSR Management team for this great opportunity. I’ve learned skills that have allowed me to start working for others and earn a fee. This is a privilege, and I am excited.”
Adebayo Florence, who specialized in catering, added, “I want to thank God for directing me here. The CSR program helped me improve my baking skills and packaging of products, which is authentic.”
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Pastor Remi Morgan, Assistant Pastor in Charge of RCCG Region 20, and his wife, Pastor Yinka Morgan, as well as Pastor Demola Adefiyemi. Members of the RCCG Rose of Sharon Parish Council, including Pastor (Mrs.) Labo Ademola, Pastor Tunde Fowler, Pastor (Mrs.) Eyono Fatayi-Williams, Pastor Nnana Ibeawuchi, and Elder Bates Sule, also graced the occasion. Additionally, key members of the ROS CSR Management team, such as Bro. Chukwuemeka Obi (HOD RCCG Rose of Sharon CSR), Mrs. Funmi Sule, Pastor Wemimo Oludunsin, and Pastor (Mrs.) Chichi Obiagwu, were in attendance.
