....Says Initiative Aims to Boost Self-Reliance and Reduce Youth Unemployment
In its bid to promote entrepreneurship and self-reliance among Nigerian youths, over 500 students of the Federal Polytechnic Oko have received free entrepreneurship books courtesy of the Federal Government’s YOUWIN programme.
The distribution exercise, which took place on campus, is part of the broader YOUWIN initiative under the Federal Ministry of Finance. The programme is designed to engage students in selected tertiary institutions across Nigeria on key aspects of entrepreneurship, with the ultimate aim of tackling youth unemployment by encouraging self-employment.
The books distributed focus on practical guides to planning, starting, and growing successful businesses. During the event, YOUWIN facilitator, Ms. Joy Onyekachi, addressed the students on the importance of skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, noting that traditional white-collar jobs are increasingly scarce and cannot accommodate the growing number of graduates in the country.
“Youths must begin to think beyond government jobs. The YOUWIN programme is here to help you realize that entrepreneurship is not just a backup plan, but a viable and sustainable path to success,” Onyekachi said. She further outlined the core principles of business development, from idea conception to execution, encouraging the students to become employers of labour rather than job seekers.
Representing the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, the Deputy Rector (Academic), Dr. Nkiruka Akabuike, commended the Federal Ministry of Finance for the laudable initiative. She emphasized the relevance of entrepreneurship in today’s economic climate and urged the students to take full advantage of the opportunity provided.
“This initiative is a step in the right direction for our students. I encourage every one of you to study the materials carefully, apply the knowledge, and start thinking creatively about how to solve problems through business,” Dr. Akabuike said.
She also encouraged the students to align their personal aspirations with entrepreneurial goals and use the resources provided to build sustainable ventures.
The event marked a significant step toward cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among students and supporting the Federal Government’s drive to reduce youth unemployment through innovation and enterprise.