LETTER TO THE EDITOR: High Unemployment Rate And The Way Out

The increase rate of unemployment in Nigeria came into being, not because the government has failed to do the needful alone, but because the youths who have fell victim have not been proactive.

Though, there are many factors responsible for unemployment and firstly, there is low standard of education in Nigeria, hence, youth of nowadays can’t compete with their counterparts from other parts of the world before ending up in the labour market. Another factor is favoritism, as people get employed based on where they come from and the persons you are connected to.

However, these should not be allowed by youth to way them down, as there are many platforms for them to improve their skills. Many graduates do not think it is essential to empower themselves with skills that would further enhance their chances of getting jobs such as Information Communication Technology (ICT) among others. Those who eventually acquire such skills get a higher chance of getting employed.

Agriculture is a big boost to the economy but many see it as a dirty job with little or no return, hence based on ignorance, they abandon agriculture. This is the same situation in several other sector where youth can leverage on.

These categories of youths do not search on ways of getting themselves self-employed, they prefer to sit at home and wait for someone to employ them. Even some of them who have ideas and not financially buoyant enough to bring their ideas to reality prefer to remain silent, which is very unfortunate.

All these have led many youths to drug abuse, thuggery, suicide, prostitution and many other vices. Sometimes, it results to emotional and mental stress, and low economic growth.

To address this situation, it must be the responsibility of all stakeholders. One, the government must ensure that efforts are made to improve on the standard of education. Employers should be more concerned about employing people who would bring development to their companies, rather than being emotional.

Also, youths should acquire more skills relevant to their field that would increase their chances of employment, so that if white-collar job is not available, they would be able to stand on their own.

• MISTURA OLADELE, Osogbo.