NYSC Obokun Corpers Empower Students with Tie and Dye Training

Kadelu Oluwole Benedict,

Osun state.

Corps members serving under the Obokun Local Government Community Development Service (CDS) group of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Osun state on Thursday held an empowerment program tagged “Empower the Community with Tie and Dye” at N.U.D. Primary School, Ibokun.

The event, which attracted students and teachers from various schools across Obokun Local Government, was organized to promote creativity, skill acquisition, and entrepreneurship among young people in the community. The corps members trained the participants on the art of tie and dye, a traditional craft that remains an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and economic heritage.

The school compound was filled with excitement and vibrant colors as students gathered to learn the process of tie and dye production. The corps members demonstrated different techniques from folding and tying the fabrics to mixing and applying the dyes while explaining how the craft can be turned into a profitable business venture.

In his address, the CDS President, Mr. Ademola Adepetu, said the initiative was borne out of the desire to equip students with practical skills that could make them self-reliant. He emphasized that the project was in line with NYSC’s mission of promoting community development and youth empowerment.

According to him, “We noticed that many young people in our host communities have great potential but lack access to skill development opportunities. This program was designed to empower students with creative knowledge that can serve them beyond the classroom. Tie and dye is not just a traditional art it’s a business opportunity that can provide income and promote local culture.”

Mr. Adepetu further encouraged the students to take the training seriously and continue practicing the skill, noting that entrepreneurship starts with learning simple crafts like tie and dye.

The highlight of the event was the hands-on practical session where students created their own tie and dye designs under the supervision of corps members. Within a few hours, the once plain white fabrics were transformed into colorful pieces featuring patterns such as spirals, stripes, and marbles. The excitement on the faces of the students reflected their sense of accomplishment and discovery.

The Local Government Inspector (LGI), Mr. Wahab Adagun, commended the corps members for their dedication and creativity. He described the initiative as a laudable one that captures the true spirit of the NYSC scheme service, innovation, and community impact.

Teachers and students from participating schools expressed appreciation to the corps members for organizing such an engaging and educative event. Many students said they were inspired to continue practicing what they had learned and possibly build careers around it in the future.

The program concluded with an exhibition of the tie and dye fabrics made during the training, followed by group photographs involving the corps members, school staff, students, and invited guests. The colorful display stood as a testament to the creativity and enthusiasm that filled the day.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Adepetu thanked the Local Government Inspector, the school management, and his fellow corps members for their cooperation and commitment. He reaffirmed the group’s dedication to carrying out more community-driven projects aimed at empowering the people of Obokun Local Government.

The “Empower the Community with Tie and Dye” initiative remains a shining example of how NYSC corps members continue to make meaningful contributions to community development  using creativity, service, and teamwork to inspire a generation toward self-reliance and national growth.