By Chidi Ugwu
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reaffirmed its dedication to inclusive youth development and employability in Ogoniland, kicking off the second edition of the International Career Enhancement and Employability Workshop for Ogoni fresh graduates and students in tertiary institutions. The two-day event, held from July 10th to 11th in Port Harcourt, drew a large gathering of young people eager to enhance their career prospects.
In his welcome address, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, highlighted the progress made since the inaugural workshop in March 2024. “Today, we have once again demonstrated that HYPREP is a promise keeper,” he stated, emphasizing the organization’s ongoing commitment to the empowerment of Ogoni youth.
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The workshop, according to Prof. Zabbey, is part of HYPREP’s strategic efforts to restore and improve livelihoods by prioritizing skills development and inclusivity. He encouraged participants to make the most of the sessions, noting, “Equipping you with relevant career skills and empowering you with employability tools is our way of ensuring that the gains of HYPREP extend beyond remediation into long-term transformation.”
Prof. Zabbey underscored the importance of peace and constructive engagement as essential values. He urged participants to take these lessons back to their communities and act as ambassadors of peace, fostering trust and cooperation. “As young people, you have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of your communities and the nation,” he remarked.
The event featured respected facilitators from diverse professional backgrounds, brought in to share practical insights and experiences with attendees. Prof. Zabbey expressed appreciation: “Your contribution is valued, and your positive impact will surely ripple across society.”
Pledging HYPREP’s continued backing, Prof. Zabbey assured participants that targeted workshops and broader livelihood initiatives will remain central to their mission. “We believe in you, and we are committed to creating platforms where your potential can be nurtured and realised,” he said.
Also, the Lead Facilitator, Mr. Akanimo Odon, emphasized that this edition focused on resource mobilization and was deliberately structured to build capacity across different levels.
Among the participants, Florence Tende, a graduate, shared that the workshop taught her practical ways to address societal challenges through innovative thinking and actionable solutions.
Isaac Tombari, an undergraduate participant, noted that the session on effective proposal writing stood out for him, as he now understands how to clearly articulate and structure impactful proposals.
Other participants, Dr. Chioma Okonkwo, Sonia-Bari Ereka, Nevi Confidence, and Batombari Kenneth — described the workshop as impressive, insightful, and highly beneficial. They commended the initiative for fostering a transformative experience for both graduate and undergraduate attendees.
The event featured breakout sessions, interactive hands-on exercises, and intensive training that strengthened the participants’ employability skills and prepared them for real-world challenges.
