The Abia State Government has lauded the leadership of the National Association of the Blind for organizing the 2025 edition of its Youth Conference with the theme: “Harnessing Technology to Enhance Employable Skills for Visually Impaired Youths.”
The commendation was made by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Sunny Jackson, during the event held at Patoria Hotels, Umuahia.
Prof. Kalu described the theme of the conference as timely and relevant, noting that it is the first of its kind in the entire South Eastern region. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Alex Otti-led administration to supporting physically challenged persons across the state, adding that initiatives like these align with the government’s inclusive development agenda.
He expressed hope that the conference would promote empowerment, accessibility, employability, and independence among visually impaired youths in Abia and beyond.
In their goodwill messages, the Commissioner for women affairs, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa represented by Mrs. Nwankwo Felicia and the commissioner for Sports and Youth development, Mrs.Nwadinma Ananaba represented by Mrs. Ukwa Merit, HOD for Physically challenged and visually impaired both commended the organizers and encouraged participants to maximize the opportunities provided through the program.
Declaring the event open, the president of the National Association of the Blind, Comrade Stanley Onyebuchi, appreciated Governor Otti for his unwavering support and noted that Abia is blessed with highly talented and resourceful blind youths.
Speaking also, the National Youth leader of the Association, Comrade Damilola Shodeyi, charged participants to make the most of the knowledge and resources offered during the conference to better their lives and communities.
The conference is expected to provide a roadmap toward equipping visually impaired youths with relevant digital and technological skills for self reliance and economic empowerment.
