1. Introduction
On Saturday, 25th October 2025, the Saint Louise de Marillac Vocational Training Centre (VTC), operated by the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, celebrated its 10th Graduation Ceremony. The event marked another milestone in the Centre’s mission of forming young women — especially the vulnerable — with strong vocational skills, deep moral grounding, and hope for a sustainable future.
The day began with a Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Michael Edomobi, SJ, with Rev. Fr. Didmus Shirima, SJ as concelebrant. It was a beautiful moment of gratitude, reflection, and thanksgiving to God for the academic journey of the graduating class.
📸 Mass celebration — Fr. Michael and Fr. Didmus at the altar
2. Program Highlights
After the Mass, the graduation ceremony unfolded with vibrant colours, joy, and cultural richness. The day’s activities reflected the creativity, confidence, and holistic formation received by the trainees.
Order of Events
- Introduction of Guests
- Opening Prayer – Rev. Fr. Michael Edomobi, SJ
- Welcoming the Graduands / Kete Welcome Dance
- Chairperson’s Opening Remarks
- Welcome Address – Sr. Gertrude Gima, DC
- Choreography
- Drama Presentation
- Message from the CMSRG
- Exhibition of VTC Products
- Fashion Parade
- Cultural Dance
- Giving of Awards
- Presentation of Start-up Items
- Speech by the Graduands
- Vote of Thanks – Sr. Olivia Umoh, DC
- Closing Prayer – Rev. Fr. Didmus Shirima, SJ
📸 Choreography & cultural performance
📸 Patronage at the Exhibition table displaying VTC-made products
3. Key Moments and Messages
The Vice-Chairman, speaking on behalf of the chairperson, emphasized discipline, perseverance, integrity, and resilience as essential tools for the graduates.
In her welcome address, Sr. Gertrude Gima, DC, thanked all partners and educators who have supported VTC’s mission of empowering young women.
📸 Sr. Gertrude Gima, D.C (VTC Administrator/Coordinator) giving her address
The day featured choreography, drama, a fashion parade, and cultural dances — all showcasing the confidence and creativity nurtured at VTC. The product exhibition highlighted the trainees’ skills in dressmaking, catering, decoration, and other trades.
4. Presentation of Start-up Items & Awards
A very emotional moment was the presentation of start-up kits, designed to help graduates begin their own small businesses. Awards were also given to outstanding trainees and hardworking instructors, celebrating excellence and dedication.
📸 Presentation of start-up kits
5. Reflections from the Graduands
The graduating class spokesperson expressed deep appreciation to the Sisters, instructors, and benefactors for their guidance and support. She testified to how VTC has shaped their careers, values, and confidence.
📸 Presentation of certificate to the best graduating trainee
6. Closing Remarks
In her closing remarks, Sr. Olivia Umoh, DC, encouraged the young women to remain rooted in faith, virtue, and hard work as they step into the world of work. The ceremony ended with a prayer and joyful group photographs.
📸 Group photo of graduates & Sisters
7. Conclusion
The 10th Graduation Ceremony celebrated not just academic achievement, but transformation — the transformation of young women becoming confident professionals and responsible citizens. The Daughters of Charity reaffirm their commitment to nurturing more young women through skill training, human development, and spiritual formation.
8. Recommendations / Future Needs
To strengthen and expand its mission, the Centre seeks support in the following areas:
- Upgrading training equipment
- Scholarship sponsorships for needy trainees
- Start-up seed funding
- Institutional partnerships for job placement
- Capacity-building for instructors
