Nigeria’s youth make up about 60 percent of the country’s populace. Making it one of the world’s youngest populations. With such a vibrant demographic, you’d expect a thriving economy, innovation, creativity, accelerated human capital development, and long-term stability. But this is not directly the case. And the difference between where we are and where we ought to be as a nation is skills.
Understanding this challenge, South Saharan Social Development Organization, SSDO, in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, under the Strategic Partnership Agreement Phase II, is playing its part in increasing the participation and skills of young people to thrive in a green economy.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) projected that green transition could create 8.4 million jobs for young individuals by 2030. To seize these opportunities, young people must be equipped with green skills to navigate the changing landscape effectively.
Recognizing the urgent need to address these issues, and in line with our commitment to empowering women and youths, SSDO commemorates International Youth Day 2023, tagged Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World with a 1-day symposium.
Participants are now more knowledgeable about green skills and empowered to take action. Sessions covered waste management, recycling, agribusiness, agroecology, renewable energy, and using social media as an advocacy tool for sustainability.
Speakers and panelists at the event include Executive Director of Eco Cycler, Ogechi Nwoye, Special Adviser to the Enugu State Government on Agriculture, Hon. Mike Ogbuekwe, Director, Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Celestine Aga, Convener of Vibrant Generation Leadership Initiative, Wilfred Okeke, and Director of Cupid Motions, Daniel Okechukwu.
