In a heartwarming display of community service and youth development, a serving NYSC Corps member, Tertsea Iorpuu Murphy and his team, has launched the Off the Street Empowerment Program in the Kufang community of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State. The four-week skills acquisition initiative is aimed at empowering 20 underprivileged youths with hands-on training in various vocational trades including barbing, makeup artistry, shoemaking, bag making, and baking.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Tertsea, who is posted to NTA Jos, explained the motivation behind the project. “This is my host community, and I wanted to give back meaningfully before my service year ends. The goal is to take youths off the street and empower them with skills they can use to create wealth for themselves and their families,” he said. “We’ve worked with community leaders to select 20 participants, and at the end of the four weeks, they will be given starter packs to launch their own businesses.”
The program has received generous support from several individuals and organizations, with Mrs. Violet Adama Kaburuk being one of the major sponsors. While declaring the program open, she praised the Corps member’s initiative and expressed strong belief in its impact.
“Tertsea approached me with this vision, and I was deeply moved,” she stated. “He could have chosen to serve and leave quietly, but instead, he chose to uplift the youth here in Jos South. We are not just training them; we’re also orienting them on responsibility. Since the support isn’t coming from them directly, it’s even more important they show dedication. If more young Nigerians take such steps, we’ll make real progress in tackling youth unemployment.”
Also speaking, the Village Head of Kufang, Mr. Dung Chibi, lauded the Corps members for their selfless efforts. “This is a wonderful privilege for our community,” he said. “This kind of program is exactly what our youth need. I urge all participants to take it seriously, follow the guidelines, and make the most of it. With commitment, they can change their own lives and inspire others.”
One of the beneficiaries, Nancy Mancha, a recent secondary school graduate, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity. “I’m really grateful for this big opportunity. It means a lot to me and others like me. I pray that God continues to open doors for the organizers.”
The Off the Street Empowerment Program runs from August 4 to 31, 2025, at various points in Kufang, Jos South, and sessions commence daily at 9 a.m.
