By Lodu William Odiya
At least 74 former children associated with armed groups have graduated after completing a six-month vocational skills training programme in Western Equatoria State, aimed at supporting their reintegration into civilian life.
According to the Western Equatoria State Government Press Unit, the programme was designed to equip the graduates with practical skills that would enable them to become self-reliant and pursue sustainable livelihoods after leaving armed groups.
“The graduates were drawn from Yambio, Ezo and Tambura counties. They had previously been associated with the SPLA-IO and other armed groups before undergoing identification, assessment, registration and reintegration processes,” the statement read.
During the six-month training, participants acquired practical skills in plumbing, tailoring, masonry, electrical installation and other vocational trades. The training was intended to provide them with opportunities to earn a living and contribute positively to their communities.
Western Equatoria State Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa presided over the graduation ceremony, where he handed certificates and vocational toolkits to the graduates to support them in applying the skills they had acquired.
The distribution of toolkits is expected to help the graduates put their training into practice as they begin the transition into civilian life.
The programme represents an important step in efforts to address the challenges facing children formerly associated with armed groups by providing them with opportunities for skills development and economic independence.
Through vocational training and reintegration support, the initiative seeks to help the graduates move away from armed activities and build productive futures within their communities.
The graduation also highlights the role of the Western Equatoria State Government in supporting the reintegration of former child soldiers and promoting their transition into civilian life through practical skills and livelihood opportunities.