THE Toma-Vunadidir Local Level Government (LLG) in Gazelle District, East New Britain, has concluded a two-week tailoring programme.
A total of 50 participants, including mothers and youths, received their certificates after completing the training last Friday.
The participants were from six wards in the upper Vunadidir area, including Raim, Gunanur, Vunadidir, Vunakabi, Ratavul 1 and Ratavul 2.
LLG Community Development Officer Gevina Laria said while their primary target group was mothers and youths, the programme attracted a notable number of eager young men keen on honing their sewing skills.
Trainer-of-Trainers (TOT), Pastor Eddie Tal, conducted three courses on key aspects of tailoring, including designing, drafting, measuring, cutting, sewing, and grooming.
He told the participants it was important not only to master the skills learnt but also to become trainers in their own right to pass on the knowledge to future generations.
Tal cited personal success stories, highlighting how his children generated income for their education through sewing garments, underscoring the potential of tailoring as a source of livelihood and development.
Community Development Advisor Peter Tutuai said the tailoring programme is aligned with the province’s 10-year vision of education, health and prosperity for its populace.
He said this included the critical role of skills training as key to creating an entrepreneurial population equipped with diverse skills.
Tutuai said the province plans to empower wards through strategic support from LLGs, districts and the province, fostering local initiatives and bolstering self-sufficiency.
The participants were urged to apply their newfound knowledge, with a strong emphasis on cultivating transformed minds, hearts, behaviours and positive attitudes to overcome challenges.
In reflecting on the programme’s impact, participants expressed gratitude for fulfilling their learning needs and gaining the confidence to create outfits on their own.
They commended the trainer and Community Development Officer for their dedication and effort in making the training a success.
Toma-Vunadidir LLG manager Kunai Wartabar urged the graduates to master their skills, maintain high quality in their work and collaborate to showcase their creations.
“This tailoring initiative not only equips individuals with a craft but also fosters community empowerment and economic growth, setting a precedent for further skill development initiatives within the region,” he said.
