Beyond learning a skill, success also depends on character.
That was the message from the Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Rev. James Odedeji, as he urged 78 graduating students of the Diocese of Lagos West Vocational and Skills Acquisition Centre to uphold integrity as they pursue their careers and life ambitions.
Speaking at the centre’s second graduation ceremony held at the Caroline Adefiola Adebiyi Conference Centre, Ipaja, Lagos, Odedeji described vocational training as a demanding but rewarding journey, stressing that success in any profession requires patience, integrity, punctuality, respect for others and teamwork.
While acknowledging the importance of certificates, the bishop said they should not be regarded as the ultimate measure of achievement.
“A certificate can be placed in a folder, but the real value of functional training is reflected in the trainee’s capacity, confidence, consistency, character and competence,” he said.
Odedeji noted that vocational and professional skills align with God’s purpose for humanity, adding that the Church has a responsibility to make both spiritual and positive societal impacts.
He also encouraged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning by seeking mentorship, observing best practices, striving for excellence and continuously upgrading their skills to remain relevant in an ever-changing world.
“Always strive for quality because it protects your reputation, builds trust and attracts better opportunities. Guard your integrity; do not compromise. Integrity is not a luxury but the foundation of lasting success. God honours character,” he said.
The 78 graduands completed a nine-month tuition-free training programme in Catering, Tailoring, ICT/Computer Studies, Hairdressing, Photography and Barbing.
The graduating class included retired school principals, unemployed youths, professionals and other less privileged members of society.
In her remarks, the wife of the bishop, initiator of the vocational centre and President of the Diocese of Lagos West Women and Girls’ Organisation, Dr. Lydia Odedeji, encouraged the graduates to pursue independence in every area of their lives.
She urged them to put God at the centre of all they do and to make integrity their guiding principle.
Some of the graduates expressed appreciation to the Diocese for the opportunity, saying the training had transformed their lives, equipped them with practical vocational skills and strengthened their ability to become self-reliant.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the graduation oath, presentation of certificates and the conferment of special appreciation awards on Bishop James Odedeji and Dr. Lydia Odedeji by the graduating students.
The event was attended by administrators, pioneer supporters of the vocational centre, members of the Ladies Christian League of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church, representatives of various women’s guilds, parents and other well-wishers.
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