From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
The Potters Wheel Foundation (TPWF), an Enugu-based NGO, aims to transform Nigerian youths from consumption to production. Brother Godsown Onuzulike, President of TPWF, revealed this during an exclusive chat with The Authority Newspaper.
TPWF specializes in manufacturing domestic and hygienic products from locally sourced raw materials. Its primary objective is to equip unemployed Nigerian youths and women with skills and entrepreneurial abilities, enabling them to be productive, self-sufficient, and contribute to Enugu state’s and Nigeria’s economic growth.
Since its establishment in 2020, TPWF has trained over 20,000 Nigerian youths across its operational stations in the 36 states and FCT (both online and offline). Enugu station has trained the highest number, with approximately 8,500 persons.
Onuzulike noted that most trainees have succeeded on their own or attached themselves to other manufacturing firms. To expand its humanitarian services beyond Enugu state capital, Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has partnered with TPWF, through Hon. Lloyd Ekweremadu, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, to train youth aged 15-35 across the 17 local government areas in short-term entrepreneurial skills.
The training, scheduled for November 4-December 14, 2024, will be two weeks per senatorial zone, with concurrent sessions in each local government area. Certificates will be awarded to trainees in December. The state government will provide logistics for trainees to start their businesses.
Onuzulike described TPWF’s four years of humanitarian service as successful despite challenges, including [briefly mention specific challenges]. He calls on community-minded individuals and organizations to collaborate with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation to take these free vocational and entrepreneurship training to communities across Enugu state and Nigeria at large.
TPWF’s 4th anniversary celebrations will take place across its operational stations: Lagos (November 10), Rivers (November 16), Kebbi (November 20), and the grand finale in Enugu (November 27-29, 2024). Highlights include:
- Exhibition of Made-in-Enugu-Nigeria Products: Showcasing products made by TPWF trainees
- Awards for Distinguished Individuals and Organizations: Recognizing outstanding contributions
- Certificate Presentation: Honoring over 300 recent graduates
- Provision of Startup Materials: Supporting indigent trainees
- Investiture of Advisory Board Members: Welcoming new leaders
TPWF will also unveil its flagship Skillup Community Project (SCP), aimed at training youth and women in all Nigerian communities, in collaboration with individuals, organizations, communities, groups, and government.
