In a momentous event geared towards fostering youth empowerment, First Lady Fatima Bio inaugurated the Adolescent and Youth Empowerment Training Center (AYETC) in Tuba, Semblehun-17, Tikonko Chiefdom, Bo District on January 25th, 2024. This initiative marks a significant stride by the government in addressing youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance through vocational training and skills development.

The AYETC offers a diverse range of courses, including tailoring, computer skills, mental work, food preservation, catering, adult literacy, and gara tie-dye. This comprehensive approach aligns with broader national strategies aimed at promoting social and economic development in Sierra Leone.

Distinguished guests at the inauguration included Paramount Chief Professor Joe Kangbai Macavoray III, former Vice President Hon. Victor Bockarie Foh, government ministry representatives, the Deputy Minister of Trade, the National Women’s Leader of the SLPP, and Bo District Council members. The presence of these dignitaries highlighted the collaborative effort towards youth development.

In her address, First Lady Fatima Bio underscored the crucial role of education and skills training in national development. She expressed gratitude to contributors, including the EU, NAO, and Mr. Mohamed Sillah, the project's initiator. Her Excellency articulated a comprehensive vision, emphasizing priorities such as education, women’s empowerment, gender equality, and justice for survivors of sexual violence. This reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and human capital development.

The ceremony concluded with a generous donation of 200 million Leones by the First Lady on behalf of the Maada & Fatima Bio Foundation. This financial support will ensure consistent salaries for tutors and staff (100 million Leones) and cover expenses for equipment, furniture, and logistics (100 million Leones). Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, First Lady Fatima Bio actively toured the AYETC facility, symbolizing her hands-on commitment to the success of this transformative initiative.

This inauguration not only signifies a commitment to youth development but also serves as a testament to the government's dedication to providing practical skills that empower the younger generation. The AYETC stands as a beacon of hope, offering tangible pathways for Sierra Leonean youth to acquire skills that enhance their employability and contribute to the nation's overall development.