Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative

Preparing for an interview can be both exciting and challenging, especially for young people taking their first steps toward employment and economic independence. During the Employability and Entrepreneurship Training for Students with Disabilities at the Plateau School for the Deaf, Bassa, participants engaged in an insightful session on Interview Preparation and Interview Questions designed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate recruitment processes successfully.

The session focused on helping students understand that an interview is more than a series of questions and answers; it is an opportunity to showcase their strengths, skills, experiences, character, and potential to an employer. Participants learned the importance of making adequate preparations before an interview, including researching an organization, understanding the role being applied for, preparing relevant documents, dressing appropriately, and arriving on time.

Through practical discussions and interactive exercises, students explored some of the most common interview questions employers ask and the best ways to respond with clarity and confidence. They were encouraged to reflect on their personal strengths, educational experiences, career aspirations, and unique abilities, enabling them to communicate their value effectively during interview engagements.

Particular attention was given to building self-confidence and overcoming anxiety, which can often be a barrier during interviews. Students were reminded that while employers assess qualifications and competencies, they also look for positive attitudes, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and the ability to work collaboratively with others.

The session created an opportunity for participants to practice presenting themselves professionally while gaining a better understanding of workplace expectations. By strengthening their interview skills, these young people are becoming better prepared to access employment opportunities, compete fairly in the labour market, and pursue their career goals with confidence.

At the heart of this training is the belief that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity. By equipping students with practical employability skills and workplace readiness competencies, we are helping to build a future where every young person can confidently pursue their ambitions and contribute meaningfully to society.

This impactful training is funded by Liliane Fonds, with technical support from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, and implemented by Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative at the Plateau School for the Deaf, Bassa, as part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, employability, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities.

As part of the ongoing Employability and Entrepreneurship Training for Students with Disabilities at the Plateau School for the Deaf, Bassa, participants were introduced to an essential digital and professional skill that has become increasingly important in today's job market—Email Communication.

In a rapidly evolving world where many employment opportunities, business transactions, and professional interactions take place online, understanding how to communicate effectively through email is no longer optional; it is a critical employability skill. This session was designed to equip students with practical knowledge on how to use email professionally and confidently as they prepare for future employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.

The session began with an introduction to what email is and why it remains one of the most widely used forms of professional communication across workplaces, organizations, and businesses. Participants explored the different components of an email, including the subject line, greeting, message body, closing remarks, and signature. Through practical examples, students gained a clearer understanding of how a well-structured email creates a positive first impression and communicates professionalism.

Participants were also guided through sample emails, enabling them to identify key elements of effective communication. The training further provided step-by-step guidance on how to draft an email, ensuring that messages are clear, respectful, concise, and purposeful. Special attention was given to the importance of proper language, accuracy, and professionalism when communicating with employers, supervisors, clients, and other stakeholders.

One of the most engaging aspects of the session focused on how to send an email to an employer. Students learned how to introduce themselves professionally, express interest in job opportunities, attach supporting documents such as applications and résumés, and follow appropriate email etiquette. This practical knowledge is expected to enhance their confidence in applying for jobs, internships, training opportunities, and other career development programmes.

Beyond the technical aspects of email writing, the session emphasized the importance of digital literacy as a pathway to greater inclusion and economic participation. By equipping students with these foundational workplace communication skills, the training is helping to bridge gaps that often limit access to employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The enthusiasm and active participation demonstrated by the students reflected their eagerness to learn and their readiness to embrace the tools needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world. Every lesson learned is another step toward building confidence, independence, and meaningful participation in the workforce.

This impactful training is funded by Liliane Fonds, with technical support from The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, and implemented by Charis Healthcare & Community Support Initiative as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen employability, entrepreneurship, and economic inclusion for persons with disabilities.