Enugu State Commissioner for Labour and Employment, Pharm Chika Ugwuoke, has emphasized the importance of skill acquisition in curbing the escalating unemployment rates in the country. Speaking at a Job Career and Employability Fair/Business Clinic organized by NECA in collaboration with Barnabas Hope Foundation, Ugwuoke highlighted the state government's commitment to partnering with various institutions to address youth unemployment.
The event, themed "Promoting Employability, Skills/Business Development Are Decent Work In South-East," drew support from key partners such as 7up Bottling Company, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, Juhel Pharmaceutical Company, COPEN Services Limited, National Pension Commission, and others.
Ugwuoke acknowledged the current unemployment rate in Enugu State, nearing 40%, describing it as a significant challenge. He emphasized the government's collaboration with entities like the Bank of Industry, National Directorate of Employment, and private institutions to bolster job opportunities for the youth.
Addressing the audience, Ugwuoke stressed the importance of qualities sought by employers, stating, "What employers are looking for is youths who have passion, energy, commitment, team spirit, and are ready to add value to an organization." He added that the state government was determined to create avenues for youths to secure employment.
NECA Director-General, Mr Adewale Onyerinde, expressed the organization's commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibilities, aiming to equip Enugu youths with essential skills for employment. He highlighted the urgency of closing the skills gap and promoting employability skills programs.
The Executive Director of Barnabas Hope Foundation, Mrs Chinelo Chime, pointed out that while employment opportunities existed, many graduates lacked the necessary skills desired by employers. Factors such as globalization, socio-economic conditions, technology, and the dominance of the private sector were identified as hindrances to graduate employment.
Gloria Chime, the Programme Lead of Barnabas Hope Foundation, explained that the job fair provided a platform for unemployed youths to learn how to create compelling CVs and present themselves effectively. Additionally, it served as an opportunity for organizations to collect data on job seekers, with the hope of absorbing those who demonstrated employability.
The collaborative efforts of government bodies, private institutions, and NGOs like Barnabas Hope Foundation reflect a concerted push towards reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth in Enugu State. DailyNews.
