FROM SKILLS TO JOBS: A PRACTICAL SOLUTION TO YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN EKITI STATE

1. The Problem

Youth unemployment is one of the challenges Ekiti State needs to address. Many young people graduate from universities and other institutions but struggle to find jobs. Others acquire vocational or digital skills but lack the resources, experience, and opportunities to earn a living from them. As a result, many young people remain dependent on their families despite their education and abilities.

2. Why It Should Be Addressed

Young people are important to the economic growth of Ekiti State. When they cannot find productive work, their talents remain underutilised, families face financial pressure, and the state loses opportunities for economic development. Addressing youth unemployment will help young people become financially independent, support local businesses, and contribute to the development of their communities.

3. THE SOLUTION FRAMEWORK: CONNECTING YOUNG PEOPLE TO REAL ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES

I propose that Ekiti State establish a Youth Skills-to-Jobs Programme that focuses not only on training young people but also on helping them secure employment or establish sustainable businesses.

The framework would have four key components:

A. Train for Available Jobs: Work with employers, farms, technology companies, and local businesses to identify the skills they need and provide relevant practical training.

B. Create Pathways to Employment: Establish partnerships with businesses to provide internships, apprenticeships, and job placements for trained young people.

C. Support Young Entrepreneurs: Provide access to business mentorship, markets, and transparent funding opportunities for young people with viable business ideas.

D. Measure Results, Not Just Training: Require the government to track how many participants secure jobs, start businesses, and sustain their businesses over time. Regular reports should be published to promote accountability.

4. Expected Impact

This approach would help bridge the gap between education and employment, improve access to economic opportunities, strengthen local businesses, and reduce young people's dependence on temporary assistance.

Conclusion

Ekiti State needs to move beyond training young people and begin creating clear pathways for them to earn a living. The success of youth empowerment should not be measured by the number of certificates distributed, but by the number of young people who can turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods.