A foundation is Osogbo, Osun State capital, Ben-Ber Foundation has called on government and other stakeholders in the education to put more efforts towards reviving the eroding culture in the state.
The Director of the Foundation, Mrs Funmi Abokede made this call on Wednesday in Osogbo during the Inauguration of Ben-Ber Cultural Hub and presentation of Children’s Book on cultural promotion, held in Osogbo.
The Commissioning, which was done to commemorate the 14th remembrance anniversary of Deacon Benjamin Adeyemi Kolade-Jah and 5th rememberance anniversary of his wife, Chief (Mrs) Bernice Alake Kolade, the couple after which the foundation is named.
In his address, the Deputy Governor of the State, Mr Benedict Alabi commended the foundation for the job it’s doing. He added that the visions of the foundation aligns perfectly with the mission as demonstrated in the event.
Alabi, who was represented by the Commissioner for Human Resources and Capacity Development, Mrs Latifat Giwa, said the state and the country at large will benefit immensely for the gesture of Ben-Ber foundation.
Earlier in her welcome address, Abokede said the foundation will provide training on economical viable vocations to the youths, women and disabled to complement the efforts of the government at various levels.
She said, “Ben-Ber Foundation Cultural Hub will provide training on economical viable vocations that will promote Yoruba culture in terms of weaving of Aso Oke, making Adire, designing of these clothes as well as making head ties and caps.
“Ben-Ber Foundation will complement the efforts of the State Government of Osun in building inclusive society and giving voice to the voiceless. Therefore, the foundation have a special focus on children with disabilities, hunt for talents in the cultural space and promote them as it was witnessed here today. The Foundation’s focus is on their capabilities and not on their disabilities.”
Abokede added that the center will enhance better learning, intellectual capability, skills acquisition that will ensure self-reliance and improved standard of living.
Hon Akintunde Adegboye, former deputy speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Chief Onifade PTA chairman of school for children with special needs, APC chairman of Osun State, Prince Adegboyega Famodun, Special adviser of the governor and rural affairs, Engr Mumuni Adekunle, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Obawale Adebisi, Arc. Muyiwa Ige with other dignitaries were present at the event.
Highlights of the programme include cultural display by the students of Special Needs School, talent display by people with disabilities and presentation of the books.
