The Uba Sani Foundation, in collaboration with Gishirin Ma’aurata Skill Acquisition Centre, last week conducted the first phase of series of trainings for intended beneficiaries of the new interest-free NIRSAL loan.
Under the partnership, Gishirin Ma’aurata Skills Acquisition Centre will train about ten thousand women and youths on poultry and fish farming, while the Uba Sani Foundation will facilitate the NIRSAL loan by providing training resources and linking the trainers with NURSAL Microfinance to benefit from the new scheme.
The first batch of 100 beneficiaries of the partnership last week received a two-day training on the technical aspect of the new NIRSAL loan scheme which involved writing a business plan, business name registration, and opening of current and corporate bank accounts with NIRSAL Microfinance Bank.
During the training which took place at the premises of the Uba Sani Foundation, the lead trainer. Mohammed Sabo advised the participants to shun fear and doubt if they want to succeed in any enterprise.
But he was quick to explain to them that every business they choose must be one they have passion for and are willing to spend their time, energy and resources to achieve results.
“You must have a winning spirit to succeed in any enterprise because challenges and obstacles will always be there. But you should remain focused on your goals and determined to succeed, “Sabo emphasized.
In his opening remarks at the occasion, the Executive Director of the Foundation, Malam Ibrahim Dan Halilu congratulated the participants for utilising the opportunity to partake in the training which aims to transform their lives.
He cautioned the participants to utilise the NIRSAL Loans when received for the purpose it was granted to them.
Malam Dan Halilu explained that many previous recipients of the loan who did not utilise it have lost the chance to laugh last, and are now biting their lips in regret.
“Don’t make similar mistake of thwarting your chances of becoming heroes for a temporary lavish lifestyle adopted by your predecessors.
The Director noted that the NIRSAL Management has introduced several measures to check misapplication of the loan, and warned participants against building castle in the air.
“The loan is meant to be used to build your businesses and you’re obliged to pay back after the moratorium,” he advised.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gishirin Ma’aurata, Alhaji Ahmad Gidado, in his welcome address said the aim of the training was to provide the participants with skills and knowledge they needed to write a strong business proposal and to operate, manage their new or existing businesses with the support of the NIRSAL loan.
He expressed delight over the impressive turn out, and urged the participants to give the trainers maximum cooperation to deliver their content, while wishing them a successful programme.
The highlight of the programme include exhibition of products produced or marketed by the participants as their line of businesses.
Those in the service sectors also showcased their businesses with presentations.
The Lead Consultant thrilled the participants with display of huge fish produced from his farm.
The training was rounded up with presentation of certificates to participants.
Meanwhile, Gishirin Ma’aurata has announced the opening of registration for another two days intensive training on poultry and fish production, in collaboration with Kaduna State Government, Uba Sani Foundation and Liberty Radio.
The training is targeted at 10,000 women and youth from the three senatorial zones in Kaduna State who will be empowered to become successful agro farmers. They are expected to avail themselves the opportunity to access the interest free loan facility introduced by NIRSAL Microfinance.