On the occasion of the 2024 International Youth Day, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has underscored the importance of equipping Nigeria’s youth to be the torchbearers of sustainable development in an increasingly dynamic world.
In an exclusive interview with Plus TV Africa, Cristian Munduate, UNICEF’s Country Representative in Nigeria, emphasized the critical role young people play in shaping the future. “Young people are the torchbearers of sustainable development. They are the architects of our shared future, and it’s time for all stakeholders to support them. The time is now; we cannot wait,” Munduate stated.
She pointed out the significant challenges facing Nigeria, particularly the gaps in education and job readiness among the youth. To tackle these issues, UNICEF launched the Generation Unlimited (GenU) initiative in 2018. This global initiative, designed to support individuals between the ages of 10 and 24, aims to enhance their skills, broaden learning opportunities, and prepare them for the workforce.
Munduate revealed that the ambitious goal of GenU is to engage 20 million young Nigerians by 2030. “So far, we have reached 6.2 million young Nigerians through various online platforms and programs,” she noted.
Among the key programs under GenU is Yoma, an online platform that offers courses enabling young people to earn certificates, thus advancing their educational and career prospects. Additionally, the Nigerian Learning Passport, another critical component of the initiative, provides distance learning opportunities for adolescents who are out of school.
Munduate highlighted several success stories that exemplify the impact of these initiatives. One such story is that of Saru Ishaq Ibrahim from Sokoto, a member of the GenU Youth Action Team, who has been a passionate advocate for girl child education and public health. “She has led campaigns to raise awareness about critical issues, including vaccinations, in her community,” Munduate shared.
Another notable example is Kadisha, who initially struggled with her education but later enrolled in the Nigerian Learning Passport program. Through the skills she acquired, Kadisha started a profitable tamarind juice business, which has enabled her to fund her education. Her entrepreneurial success underscores the vast potential of Nigerian youth when provided with the right tools and opportunities.
However, despite these achievements, Munduate acknowledged that significant challenges remain. “Access to technology and education in many parts of Nigeria is still limited, especially in rural areas,” she pointed out.
Munduate called on the government and educational institutions to prioritize investments in technology and education. “Access to technology requires funds, but it’s an investment with massive long-term gains,” she emphasized. “Providing platforms for learning and making them accessible across rural communities will empower the youth, ultimately offering value for money.”
As Nigeria continues to develop, the involvement of young people in shaping the nation’s future is crucial. With initiatives like GenU and continued support from government and private sector partners, the potential for sustainable development driven by the youth remains within reach.
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