Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative

Thirty young persons with disabilities gathered at the Plateau School for the Deaf, Bassa, not merely as students attending a training, but as future professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders, and contributors to society. Throughout this Employability and Entrepreneurship Training, their enthusiasm, participation, and determination have continued to demonstrate a powerful truth: when opportunities are made accessible, potential flourishes.

One of the key sessions focused on Getting a Job, Understanding What Employers Look For, and Developing a Simple Curriculum Vitae (CV). Designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, the session provided participants with practical knowledge that will help them navigate the world of work with greater confidence and preparedness.

Participants explored the realities of the recruitment process and gained valuable insights into the qualities employers seek beyond academic qualifications. Discussions highlighted the importance of reliability, punctuality, teamwork, adaptability, communication, integrity, problem-solving, and a willingness to learn. Students were encouraged to understand that employers are not only looking for certificates but also for individuals who can contribute positively to the workplace and demonstrate a strong work ethic.

The session also introduced participants to the fundamentals of CV development. Many of the students were learning for the first time how to organize their personal information, educational background, skills, experiences, and strengths into a professional document that can open doors to employment opportunities. Through practical guidance and examples, they gained a clearer understanding of how to present themselves effectively to potential employers.

The outcome of the session was evident in the increased confidence and engagement of participants. Students actively contributed to discussions, asked thoughtful questions, and demonstrated a growing understanding of how to prepare for future employment opportunities. More importantly, they began to see themselves as capable individuals with valuable skills and abilities that deserve recognition in the labour market.

As we continue to strengthen ability in disability, we are reminded that meaningful inclusion requires more than awareness—it requires investment, opportunity, and action. Thousands of children and young persons with disabilities across our communities still lack access to trainings, mentorship, and economic empowerment opportunities that can transform their futures.

This is why partnerships matter. This is why support matters. We invite individuals, organizations, businesses, and development partners to join us in expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities. Whether through funding, technical expertise, mentorship, volunteering, advocacy, or donations, every contribution helps create a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.

This transformative initiative is funded by Liliane Fonds, with technical support from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, and implemented by Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative. Together, we are investing in ability, promoting inclusion, and creating pathways for young persons with disabilities to achieve economic independence and reach their full potential.

One of the most impactful sessions during the second day of the Employability and Entrepreneurship Training for Students with Disabilities at the Plateau School for the Deaf, Bassa, focused on a fundamental life and workplace skill—Communication.

Facilitated by our Program Manager, the session provided participants with a deeper understanding of what communication truly means and why it remains one of the most important skills for personal growth, employability, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion.

The discussion emphasized that communication is the process of sharing information, ideas, thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others. Participants learned that communication goes far beyond spoken words and can take many forms, including sign language, writing, emails, text messages, body language, facial expressions, visual images, and other accessible means of expression.

For students with hearing impairments, this conversation was particularly empowering. It reinforced the understanding that effective communication is not limited by disability but strengthened through the ability to use different channels to connect, engage, and build relationships. The session encouraged participants to recognize their existing communication strengths while exploring new ways to express themselves confidently and professionally.

Beyond understanding the concept, students also explored the role communication plays in everyday life. Whether applying for a job, interacting with customers, participating in a team, building a business, or advocating for their rights, the ability to communicate effectively can open doors to opportunities and success.

The session further highlighted the importance of listening, understanding messages clearly, expressing ideas respectfully, and adapting communication styles to different audiences and environments. Through interactive engagement, students were encouraged to view communication not merely as a skill but as a powerful tool for leadership, self-advocacy, collaboration, and economic empowerment.

As the training continues, participants are gaining practical knowledge that prepares them not only for employment and entrepreneurship but also for active participation in society. By strengthening communication skills, we are helping to build confidence, increase independence, and equip young people with disabilities to navigate the world with greater purpose and possibility.

This training is funded by Liliane Fonds, with technical support from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, and implemented by Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative as part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, opportunity, and sustainable livelihoods for persons with disabilities.

TOMORROW'S LEADERS: EQUIPPING STUDENTS WITH DECISION-MAKING AND PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS

Every day, young people are faced with decisions that shape their future. From managing peer pressure and academic challenges to navigating relationships and personal aspirations, the choices they make today can significantly influence the course of their lives. Yet many adolescents lack the guidance and practical life skills needed to make informed decisions and respond effectively to challenges.

Through its Prevention Program, Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative (CHARIS) is addressing this gap by equipping young people with critical life skills that promote resilience, confidence, and healthy development. As part of the ongoing Life Skills in Schools Initiative, CHARIS recently engaged students at Shekina High School, Jos, Plateau State, in an interactive session focused on Decision Making and Problem Solving.

The session provided students with practical tools to think critically, evaluate options, understand consequences, and make responsible choices in their daily lives. Participants explored real-life scenarios and learned structured approaches to solving problems, managing difficult situations, and overcoming obstacles in constructive ways.

This intervention is particularly important at a time when many young people are exposed to increasing social pressures, misinformation, risky behaviors, and mental health challenges. By strengthening decision-making and problem-solving abilities, CHARIS is helping students develop the confidence to make positive choices, resist harmful influences, and become active contributors to their schools and communities.

Beyond the classroom, the impact of these skills extends into families and society. Young people who can make informed decisions are more likely to build healthy relationships, stay engaged in education, avoid harmful behaviors, and pursue opportunities that contribute to their personal growth and community development. These skills also strengthen emotional wellbeing, helping students cope more effectively with life's challenges and uncertainties.

The Life Skills in Schools Initiative reflects CHARIS' commitment to prevention as a powerful tool for community transformation. Rather than waiting to respond to crises, the program proactively equips young people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate life successfully and reach their full potential.

By investing in young people today, we are helping to build a generation of confident decision-makers, responsible leaders, and resilient citizens who will contribute positively to society tomorrow.

CHARIS remains grateful to its partners, supporters, schools, and Friends of CHARIS whose continued collaboration makes these life-changing interventions possible. Together, we are empowering young minds, strengthening communities, and creating pathways for a brighter future.