Mercy Corps’ Girls Improving Resilience through Livelihood and Health (GIRL-H) program has successfully empowered 2,500 Nigerian youths with marketable skills, revealed during the GIRL-H Program’s Job Fair held in Lagos.
The event attracted a diverse group of attendees, including students, fresh graduates, and prospective professionals. Participants engaged with representatives from various companies and organizations, explored career opportunities, and gained insights into different sectors.
Ndubisi Anyanwu, Country Director of Mercy Corps, emphasized the importance of youth empowerment in Nigeria’s development. “We believe that empowering youth is the future, actually the present, given the demographics in Nigeria. With a rapidly growing youth population, equipping young people with marketable skills is critical for their success and the nation’s overall development. With Nigeria’s youth population projected to double in the next 16 years, investing in their potential is critical,” Anyanwu stated.
Anyanwu called on all stakeholders to unite in empowering young Nigerians, highlighting the significance of such investments for the future.
Chioma Ukpabi, CEO of the EdTech platform SUWK, delivered a keynote presentation on the transformative role of technology in skill development. She encouraged the youth to integrate technology with practical skills to unlock numerous opportunities. Ukpabi advised the attendees to leverage free online resources for learning and to use online platforms to showcase their skills and attract potential clients.
“You can actually learn virtually anything online,” Ukpabi said, motivating young people to take proactive steps in their skill development and career advancement. “Don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking. Put yourself out there. Post what you have. There are many platforms where young people can create content. Showcase your skills and connect with potential clients,” she urged.
Rosetta Offiong Etta, Programme Manager of the GIRL-H Program, expressed her delight at the success of the Job Fair. “We are thrilled with the success of today’s Job Fair and the opportunities it created for our participants. This event is a testament to our commitment to empowering young individuals, promoting gender inclusivity, and fostering a supportive environment for all.”
Skill Training and Development
The job fair provided more than networking opportunities; it included skill training sessions on crucial topics like business branding and career promotion strategies. Participants learned about business branding, marketing, and professional growth, equipping them with enhanced skills and increased confidence in their job search efforts.
The GIRL-H program by Mercy Corps is making significant strides in empowering Nigerian youth by providing them with essential skills for their future careers. The success of the job fair and the ongoing support from Mercy Corps highlights the importance of such initiatives in fostering sustainable development and creating a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth.
