Ebonyi Kicks Off Enrollment Of 650 Youths In UNDP-Backed Job Scheme

The Ebonyi State Government has unveiled plans to engage over 600 youths in a job and skills development programme aimed at tackling unemployment and boosting capacity among young people.

The State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, disclosed this after an enlarged meeting with youth leaders at his office in Abakaliki. He said the initiative, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will target about 650 youths across the state.

According to Idike, the meeting was convened to sensitise youth leaders on the programme and mobilise eligible participants to take advantage of the opportunity. “The essence of the meeting is to brief youth leaders on the UNDP programme designed to train about 650 Ebonyi youths in skill development.

"They are expected to encourage their members to register by filling the application forms for enlistment,” he said. He explained that successful applicants would be deployed to workplaces close to their residences and paid a monthly stipend of N150,000 for a one-year training period.

“At the end of the programme, beneficiaries will be linked with firms for employment, while outstanding participants may be considered for opportunities abroad,” he added. The commissioner noted that the state has a limited window to submit nominees, stressing that selection would be on a first-come, first-served basis. He urged youth leaders to expedite the distribution and collection of application forms to meet the deadline.

Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in the state, Douglas Ochishi, commended the UNDP and the state government for the initiative, describing it as a major opportunity for young people.

Similarly, the National President of Mgboejiogu Youth Assembly, Onyeoma Kelechi, said the programme would provide a lifeline for many unemployed graduates.

Other youth leaders including the representative of YOWICAN, Catechist Daniel Onele,Comrade Nwoye George,national president Ohanivo Youth Forum and Mr Onyechi Nwankwo, national president, Ikwo Nnodo Youth Forum lauded the government for its inclusive approach.

They expressed optimism that the scheme would significantly reduce unemployment and encourage greater interest in education among youths in the state.