By Mike Odeh James
Kaduna, Nigeria
A wave of joy swept through the Christian community in Sabo, Kaduna, as thirty graduating students of Kings Theological and Technological College and Seminary—popularly known as Theotech—received brand-new sewing machines to kickstart their careers in fashion design.
The empowerment, which took place during the institute’s joint inauguration, graduation, and matriculation ceremony on 17 May 2025, saw 28 women and one man graduate as trained tailors. According to school authorities, this gesture is part of a broader vision to combat poverty and promote Christian values through vocational education.
Speaking to journalists, Rev. Dr. Sam Magai Albert, the founder and president of Theotech, described the occasion as the fulfillment of a long-standing dream.
“This has been my vision for over ten years—to establish an educational institution that teaches Christians how to be self-employed, productive, and committed to living godly lives,” Rev. Albert said.
Each of the graduates was gifted a two-line industrial sewing machine, a move Rev. Albert believes will transform the economic prospects of the beneficiaries. He added that the empowerment project was made possible through a strategic partnership with Heartland International Ministries (HIM), based in Lenexa, Kansas, USA.
“Heartland International Ministries partnered with us to empower these 29 women and one man, as well as their trainers, with sewing machines worth millions of Naira,” Rev. Albert disclosed.
He also acknowledged Mr. Byron Whetstone, the Executive Director of Heartland International Ministries, for his instrumental support in making the initiative a success.
“We believe many of them will become self-sufficient, innovative, and start generating income immediately. Nigerian fabrics and clothing styles are increasingly gaining recognition in the United States, and we expect some of our graduates to begin exporting their work abroad.”
Faith Meets Practical Change
Rev. Albert also emphasized that the location of the theological and vocational school was a deliberate choice—strategically sited near Black Street, a neighborhood notorious for drug abuse, prostitution, and other social vices.
“By the grace of God, we have succeeded in removing many young people from the streets, guiding them spiritually, and empowering them with legitimate skills to earn a living,” he explained.
“Our goal is to transform what is known today as Black Street into a ‘White Street’—a symbol of purity, renewal, and hope.”
Graduates Share Their Joy
Several of the new graduates expressed gratitude and optimism as they received their machines. They described the support from Theotech as life-changing and pledged to make the most of the opportunity.
One of the recipients, who preferred to remain anonymous, said:
“This is more than just a sewing machine—it’s a ticket to a new life. I can now work, support my family, and stay away from negative influences.”
Another graduate added:
“The training and spiritual guidance we received have changed our lives. We are not just tailors—we are Christian entrepreneurs.”
A Model for Holistic Development
Theotech’s unique blend of theology and technology education is positioning it as a model for holistic development in Nigeria. Its curriculum combines biblical teachings with practical skills training, targeting communities plagued by poverty and social decay.
Rev. Albert affirmed that the institution plans to expand its outreach and vocational programs in the coming years, with the aim of replicating the success recorded in Sabo across other parts of the country.
“This is only the beginning. We are determined to raise a new generation of Christians who are both spiritually grounded and economically empowered,” he concluded.
As Theotech continues its mission of transforming lives and communities, its latest cohort of graduates stands as a testament to what can be achieved when faith, education, and purpose align.
