On October 1, 2024, the Women’s Training Center hosted a bead-making workshop that witnessed an impressive turnout from both students and faculty. The event began 8:30 am with a time of praise and worship, setting a joyful and uplifting tone for the day. This was followed by a brief charge from the Supervisor, Dr. Olukemi Adejuwon. Drawing from John 5:17, where Jesus says, “My Father is always at His work to this very day, and I too am working,” she encouraged participants to embrace diligence and productivity, even on a public holiday like this one.

The bead-making instructor, Miss Olajiire Oyedokun, a young lady who has just completed her NYSC programme in Cross-Rivers State and a member of the Lydia Auxillary of Ayegun Baptist Church, Ogbomoso was assisted by Mrs Joy Ishola, the immediate past Prefect of the 2023/2024 set of the WTC.  After an overview of what the art of beading entails; Miss Oyedokun enumerated the many benefits of having this skill. In her testimony, she has made reasonable income from this art while she was in the University and through her NYSC year. She therefore encouraged the 30 workshop participants to get interested and hope for the best through acquiring the skill.

According to her, there are various types of beads and they could be made into various fashion accessories including bags, shoes, belts, jewelries and more, For this workshop, three styles of keychain were learned: the Ball of 30, the Crawl Shape, and the L Shape. The types of beads used included crystal beads and round plastic beads. The instructor also provided instruction in Yoruba for those unable to follow along in English, promoting inclusivity. The hands-on session was engaging, and participants enjoyed expressing their creativity through the bead designs.

Overall, it was a successful and enriching experience, with all 30 participants leaving equipped with new skills, three beautiful keychains, and renewed enthusiasm. To God be the glory!

Report Compiled By: Odunlami Oritselaju