Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare (MWASW), UNICEF, AKAWE TORKWULA POLYTECHNIC GRADUATE 61 CHILD PROTECTION SOCIAL WORKERS IN OTUKPO

The Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Akawe Torkwula Polytechnic, has graduated 61 Community-Based Child Protection Social Workers in Otukpo-Icho, Okete Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs Theresa Odachi Ikwue, described the training as a rare privilege, noting that the certificate awarded to the graduates is equivalent to a diploma certificate.
Mrs Ikwue charged the graduates to take their responsibilities seriously, protect children across Benue State and translate the knowledge acquired into practical action. She stressed that their performance would be assessed through the reports they submit, urging them to remain committed to safeguarding children’s rights.

The Commissioner appreciated UNICEF, international and national donors, Akawe Torkwula Polytechnic and the traditional leadership of Otukpo for supporting the initiative and providing an enabling environment. She particularly commended the Ocho Otukpo, Chief John Eyimonye, and the Ejilas for their cooperation, while calling on traditional rulers to intensify efforts against child marriage.

She also commended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for creating an enabling environment for the Ministry’s programmes and expressed hope that the training would be extended to all 23 local government areas of the state. She further acknowledged Mr Victor Atuchukwu Chid Protection Specialist with UNICEF for his passion and commitment to child protection.
In her remarks, the Deputy Rector of Akawe Torkwula Polytechnic, Dr Philomena Uweh, who represented the Rector, described the graduation as a milestone and appreciated UNICEF and the Benue State Government for investing in child protection, noting that protecting children creates the foundation for productivity and development.
The Ocho Otukpo, Chief John Eyimonye, expressed delight that the initiative was the first of its kind in his community and pledged continued support for child protection efforts.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mr Patrick Ijauka assured UNICEF and the Ministry of their commitment to applying the knowledge acquired and protecting children in their respective communities.
The graduation marks another milestone in the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening community-based child protection structures and promoting the safety and well-being of children across Benue State.
 
By Joy Akoh 
Information Officer 
Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare

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