As part of activities commemorating this year’s World Skills Day, We The Youth, in collaboration with Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, has empowered over 3,800 undergraduates. The event highlights the importance of equipping young people with skills, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
Government Commitment to Youth Empowerment
The Special Assistant to President Tinubu, Professor Busayo Fakinlede, emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to providing facilities and programs that encourage entrepreneurship and equip young people for employment and decent work. He noted that technical, digital, entrepreneurial, and social skills play a vital role in empowering young people.
Empowering Youths in Skills Acquisition
Professor Fakinlede highlighted various initiatives, including the use of Artificial Intelligence in the maritime sector, to promote order and security in ports. He stressed the need for youths to upgrade themselves to remain relevant in the job market.
Consistency in Youth Policies
Engr Azunna Chukwu, President of Emplug Group and Founder of We The Youth, emphasized the need for consistency in youth policies, particularly in skills development and tackling unemployment. He advised young Nigerians to develop in-demand skills and praised We The Youth’s initiative to train university students at no cost. This is going to be continues in highly technical digital areas.
Harnessing Student Skills
Dr. Idoko Sunday, Dean of Students Affairs at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, highlighted the importance of aligning with the world to celebrate World Skills Day. He noted that the university is harnessing students’ skills through various centers, encouraging them to become self-employed and contribute to the nation’s economy.
Student Empowerment Initiatives
Prof Adeniran Ariyo, Director of the Centre for Students Empowerment and Mentoring, revealed that the center has developed 14 initiatives and trained students in about 30 areas to equip them with practical skills.
Student Testimonials
Juliet Okolie, a student, expressed her gratitude for being part of the AI training program, stating that AI has become a vital skill in today’s digital world. Prof Shiva Rae Koundoun, Bursar of Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, emphasized the importance of unwrapping the Act to students, enabling them to understand its provisions and benefits.
Conclusion
The event underscores the importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship in empowering Nigerian youths. With over 3,800 undergraduates empowered, the initiative is a step in the right direction towards equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
Gratitude to We The Youth for embarking on this giant Project of training young Nigerians on AI and many other critical subjects for free just so everyone is digitally on spot.
