Stitches of Ability Phase 3
The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Cosmopolitan recently inaugurated Phase 3 of its acclaimed Stitches of Ability initiative, marking another milestone in its commitment to empowering special-needs children through vocational education. This phase broadens the program beyond sewing to include shoe making, tie-and-dye, and drawing, equipping participants with practical skills that foster independence, creativity, and potential income generation. The commencement ceremony featured dignitaries from the club, school leadership, parents, and enthusiastic students, with a clear vision to expand education through skill-building and community integration.
Rooted in the belief that disability should not limit opportunity, the program’s name Stitches of Ability symbolizes stitching hope and empowerment for children with special needs. Initially focusing on basic sewing and tailoring, it evolved through two phases, each culminating in competitions that spotlighted student talents. According to the club’s site, the project “aims to showcase … hidden talents of our special students through vocational skills and economic empowerment.
Though young, the children were visibly excited during hands-on sessions. Their creations, be it a painted doodle, a stitched pattern, or a dye-patterned cloth, demonstrated pride and a sense of accomplishment.