Ekiti State is a rapidly growing State in Nigeria with a high population of youths. These young people represent a great potential for the growth, advancement, and development of the State. With the right opportunities and support, they can become key drivers of economic, social, and political progress. Not leaving anyone behind in the State developmental strides is not only essential, but a tactical and productive move.
I have itemised below some ways in which youths can contribute to the growth of Ekiti State:
Entrepreneurship: Many young people have innovative ideas that can be developed into successful businesses. The managers of youths in the State must explore this by providing them with ‘access’ to capital, training, and mentorship, the government and private sector can encourage young entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, creating jobs and contributing to the economy. Whoever becomes the Commissioner of Youth Development must form a serious synergy with other Commissioners, internal and external partners in the area of entrepreneurship. Every entrepreneurship opportunities that comes into the state must have youths as the drivers or at least more than 60% for the youths.
Education: Investing in education is key to developing the talents and skills of Ekiti State’s youth. By providing quality education, training, and job placement services, the state can help young people to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy. Our education should be practical. After leaving Secondary School, our students should have a compulsory one-year technical School experience. This will help them acquire skills that will make them independent, self-reliant, and self-liberated.
Technology: Ekiti State’s youth are tech-savvy and are familiar with the latest technological advancements. By investing in technology infrastructure and promoting the development of tech startups, the state can tap into the skills and creativity of its young people to drive innovation and growth. The Ekiti Knowledge Zone is a veritable opportunity to be explored to extract and put to good use, the technological potentials of the youths.
Civic engagement: Young people can play a critical role in shaping the future of Ekiti State by participating in the political process, advocating for their interests, and holding leaders accountable. Encouraging youth involvement in local governance and decision-making processes can help to ensure that the voices of young people are heard, and their concerns addressed.
Exchange programs: exchange programs can be an effective way to help Ekiti youths contribute to the economic growth of the state by providing them with valuable educational and professional experiences, as well as exposure to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives. Below are some ways exchange programs can help Ekiti youths:
a. Skill development: Exchange programs provide opportunities for Ekiti youths to acquire new skills and knowledge, such as entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology. These skills can then be used to start and grow businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the development of the state’s economy.
b. Cultural exchange: By participating in exchange programs, Ekiti youths can gain exposure to new cultures and perspectives, which can broaden their understanding of the world and their place in it. This can help to foster innovation and creativity, as well as promote tolerance and understanding.
c. Professional networks: Exchange programs offer opportunities for Ekiti youths to network with professionals in their field of interest, both locally and internationally. This can help them to build valuable contacts and partnerships, as well as gain insight into industry trends and best practices.
d. Global citizenship: Exchange programs can help Ekiti youths to develop a sense of global citizenship, which involves a commitment to promoting positive change in their communities and beyond. This can inspire them to use their skills and knowledge to contribute to the economic growth and development of Ekiti State.
Exchange programs can help Ekiti youths to develop skills, gain exposure to new cultures and perspectives, build professional networks, and develop a sense of global citizenship. By doing so, they can contribute to the economic growth and development of Ekiti State, both in the short and long term
Summarily, Ekiti State’s youth are a valuable asset that can help drive the state’s growth and development. By providing them with the right opportunities, support, and resources, the state can harness their energy and creativity to create a brighter future for all. The Youth energy must be rightly deplored to reposition Ekiti State. Our greatest asset is that of the human resources, all hands must be on deck to move Ekiti forward, and I posit that, the young people in Ekiti State are a critical part of the stakeholders that will do that.
Toba Fatunla
fatunlat1@gmail.com
