The ECOWAS Commission’s Directorate of Conference and Protocol recently concluded its 2024 Specialised Trainings for Interpreters and Translators (STIT). This initiative aims to enhance communication skills, contributing to regional integration within the ECOWAS member states.
The three-day training, held from November 4-6, focused on building language skills among multilingual youth from the region. The program offered opportunities for participants to work as freelance professionals with the Community, pursue further academic training with financial support from ECOWAS, or serve as interns within the Directorate’s language section.
Participants engaged in practical exercises to develop interpreting and translating skills. They observed professionals at work and practiced in real-life settings. The training also included guidance on public speaking and marketing oneself to institutions like the ECOWAS Commission.
Mrs. Olukemi Robinson-Atabuh, Director of the Directorate of Conference and Protocol at the ECOWAS Commission, expressed gratitude towards all involved parties for their dedication. She stated, “The Specialised Trainings for Interpreters and Translators (STIT) is part of youth empowerment and ECOWAS’ commitment towards regional integration and employment generation.”
Looking forward to 2025, Mrs. Robinson-Atabuh mentioned plans for scholarships aimed at succession planning within the Commission. At the end of this year’s sessions, four trainees received certificates of completion.
Throughout 2024, training sessions spanned from March to November. Outcomes include two trainees enrolled in university courses, one trainee joining the roster of Language Service Providers (LSPs), and two staff members being mentored for career advancement within ECOWAS.
