Henrich Akomolafe, Founder of Henrich Initiative, a Non-Governmental Organisation says the current challenges bedeviling Nigeria is a result of the refusal of governments to truly pay attention to the empowerment of youths in the country.
In a statement issued in commemoration of World Youth Skills day, Akomolafe said it was distasteful that the system in the country has been unfairly skewed to put the youths at a disadvantage.
“The ASUU strike has entered its fifth month, students are loitering around their houses, crime is on the rise and teenage and unplanned pregnancies are on the rise because government is not showing as much commitment as it should to young people and to education.
“However, youths must take charge of their future by realizing that they can equip themselves with necessary skills to grow and excel. Although, we are beginning to see a new set of skills in demand post Covid-19, youths can learn digital marketing, programming, project management and in fact, marketing and negotiating skills that will proffer opportunities for them in the global space.
The 29 year old Akomolafe who is also contesting for the House of Representatives seat for Ekiti South Federal Constituency 2 under the Peoples Democratic also advocated more investment in vocational training for young people in schools.
“There are several skills in demands but importantly, youths should be exposed to entrepreneurship and vocational trainings. Having such skills at a tender age paved the way for what I know and I have been able to achieve today.”
He also sought the full inclusion of young people with disabilities, noting that they must not be left behind as the development of youths remains a collective concern.
The World Youth Skills Day is commemorated annually on July 15 with this year’s theme focusing on “Transforming youth skills for the future”.