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The Justice, Development, Peace and Caritas Commission (JDPC), Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, successfully conducted the final practical examination for the 2026 Batch A Confectionery Students at the JDPC Skills Acquisition Institute. The practical assessment focused on the baking and decoration of a traditional wedding cake, marking the culmination of several months of intensive vocational training. The confectionery training programme commenced on 4th January,2026 and provided participants with comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge in a wide range of baking and confectionery skills. Throughout the training period, students received hands-on instruction in the production of biscuits, chin-chin, egg rolls, meat pies, shawarma, peanuts, and various types of cakes and pastries. This initiative forms part of JDPC Owerri's commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development through the generous collaborative support of the Catholic Relief Services (CRS). The programme seeks to equip young people with employable and entrepreneurial skills that will enable them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Representing the JDPC Director, Mr. Ohaeri Kingsley Akachi, Project Manager, expressed appreciation to the students for their dedication, discipline, and commitment throughout the training period. He also commended the instructor, Lady Rosemary Umeze and the Consultant Mrs. Ebere Nwaosu, for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to ensuring quality learning outcomes. In his remarks, Mr. Ohaeri encouraged the students to make judicious use of the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme. He wished them success in their final practical examinations and urged them to prepare for the next phase of the project, which includes the completion of training for Batch B students, followed by the empowerment and graduation ceremony for all successful participants. Speaking on behalf of the graduating students, Mr. Odunna Emmanuel, Course Representative from St. Paul's Parish, Owerri, expressed profound gratitude to the Church, particularly to His Grace, Most Rev. Lucius I. Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri, and the JDPC Director, Fr. Dr. Gerald Njoku, for providing the opportunity to acquire life-changing vocational skills free of charge. Mr. Emmanuel noted that the programme has equipped participants with practical skills capable of generating sustainable income and improving their livelihoods. He pledged to transfer the knowledge acquired to other young people within St. Paul's Parish and to offer his services during church celebrations and events requiring cake baking and confectionery expertise. Project Impact The successful completion of the Batch A practical examinations demonstrates the effectiveness of vocational skills training as a tool for youth empowerment, poverty reduction, and economic inclusion. Through this intervention, participating youths have acquired valuable entrepreneurial competencies that will enhance their opportunities for self-employment and financial independence. JDPC Owerri remains grateful to the Catholic Relief Services, Friends Of Fr. Gerald Njoku( In Germany& Nigeria) and all partners whose support continues to make these transformative opportunities available to vulnerable and unemployed youths within the Archdiocese and beyond. Conclusion The 2026 Batch A Confectionery Training Programme represents another significant milestone in JDPC Owerri's mission of promoting sustainable livelihoods and empowering young people through practical skills acquisition. As the project progresses toward the graduation and empowerment phase, the Commission remains committed to nurturing skilled, productive, and self-reliant youths who will contribute positively to society. Prepared by: Justice, Development, Peace and Caritas Commission (JDPC)Media Team, Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri
