Introduction to Bura Women Development Association
Dr Bukar Usman, former Permanent Secretary in the presidency, has commended the Bura Women Development Association (BUWDA) for successfully establishing a skill acquisition centre in Marama, Hawul Local Government Area, Borno State. Usman, President of the Bukar Usman Foundation and President of the Nigerian Folklore Society (NFS), gave the commendation at the Bura Day Celebration, in Abuja.
The Bura Day Celebration
The event, organised by BUWDA’s Abuja Chapter, was aimed at inaugurating a Microfinance Bank and renovating and furnishing the association’s Guest House at the Skill Acquisition Centre. As the guest speaker at the event, Usman lauded the association for its commitment to improving the welfare of the people and advancing the development of Buraland. He identified the centre as the pride of Bura and a model for self-help in Buraland, Biu Emirate, Borno, encouraging others to follow its example.
The Skill Acquisition Centre
Usman further described it as a lasting legacy to the goodwill and dedication of the initiators, both living and deceased. “Skill acquisition is an integral part of education that our people have embraced at all levels, since it was introduced by former colonial administrators and foreign missionaries decades ago. BUWDA, which was inaugurated in 2014, established the Marama Skills Acquisition Centre in 2020. The centre was formally commissioned by the Borno State Government on Dec. 31, 2022, the same day as the graduation of the first set of trainees. Everyone who attended the well-equipped training facilities at the centre has benefited, and the centre remains open to attract more trainees and visitors,” Usman added.
The Importance of Skill Acquisition
He emphasised that the skills provided at the centre were crucial for supplementing farming, which remained the primary occupation in the region. He also highlighted the need to modernise farming methods and increase production to meet the growing population. “We should utilise the vast arable lands that are suitable for mechanisation and avoid relying on inefficient, labour-intensive methods,” he said. Usman called for the revival of Agricultural Shows to showcase improved crop and animal varieties and reward exemplary farmers.
The Proposed Microfinance Bank
Regarding the proposed establishment of a Microfinance Bank by the association, Usman said it would improve facilities at the centre and bring modern financial transactions to rural communities, accelerating socio-economic development. However, he advised that its inauguration should be based on sound feasibility studies and strong financial management practices. “The responsibility of ensuring the success of this initiative lies with the current and future leaderships of the association,” Usman said.
BUWDA’s Mission and Objectives
Mrs Mary Hamman, President of BUWDA, explained that the association aimed to promote self-reliance among its members, enhance skills and capacity building for Bura women and youth in agriculture, organic farming, and entrepreneurship. She also emphasised that BUWDA’s mission includes providing development projects such as schools, clinics, and potable water for the Bura Community. “The role of BUWDA is to care for the family and community, to be a mother to all. By opening the Skill Acquisition Centre, we aim to keep youth from wandering the streets. Many have finished secondary school but have not pursued further education due to the country’s challenges. Instead of idleness, we decided to provide them with opportunities to acquire skills and empower themselves,” Hamman said.
Training Programmes and Collaborations
She further mentioned that the centre offered various training programmes, including tailoring, mechanical skills, sweater weaving, catering, and ICT. She added that BUWDA was also collaborating with the University of Jos for counterpart funding to open a satellite campus at the centre.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bura Women Development Association has made significant strides in promoting self-reliance and skill acquisition among its members. The establishment of the skill acquisition centre is a notable achievement, and the proposed microfinance bank is expected to further accelerate socio-economic development in the region. With its commitment to providing development projects and empowering its members, BUWDA is an exemplary model for community development.
FAQs
- What is the main objective of the Bura Women Development Association?
The main objective of BUWDA is to promote self-reliance among its members and provide development projects for the Bura Community. - What type of training programmes are offered at the skill acquisition centre?
The centre offers various training programmes, including tailoring, mechanical skills, sweater weaving, catering, and ICT. - What is the proposed microfinance bank expected to achieve?
The proposed microfinance bank is expected to improve facilities at the centre and bring modern financial transactions to rural communities, accelerating socio-economic development. - What is the collaboration between BUWDA and the University of Jos?
BUWDA is collaborating with the University of Jos for counterpart funding to open a satellite campus at the centre.
Source: nannews.ng
