By Rakiya A.Muhammad
Amidst Nigeria’s promising landscape, the pressing issue of youth unemployment looms large, demanding immediate attention. With the youth unemployment rate remaining a matter of concern, the need for effective solutions is more urgent than ever.
Yet, as industries evolve, the demand for technical skills rises. With more than 60% of Nigeria’s population under 25, the country’s economic destiny is significantly influenced by its youth.
However, many people struggle to get work because they lack technical skills, and educational systems often do not meet the expectations of today’s companies.
The challenge lies in preparing our youth to meet this demand.
Nestle Nigeria is at the forefront of combating this challenge, investing over N6 billion over 13 years to bridge the technical skills gap among Nigerian youth. This initiative is not just about enhancing abilities but also about increasing their employability in the job market.
The esteemed London City and Guilds technical qualification is the culmination of the 18-month rigorous vocational program at the Nestlé Technical Training Centre.
This program covers a wide range of technical skills, including machining, mechanical fitting operations, electrical operations, instrumentation operations, and automation.
The centre imparts theoretical knowledge and equips young people with essential skills for success through practical training and real-world projects.
This unique and effective combination of academic and practical engineering education significantly enhances their employability.
Equip, Empower, Elevate
In keeping with its efforts to address youth unemployment in Nigeria, the Company has also demonstrated its commitment to reducing the growing unemployment gap by providing jobs to ten graduates from its Technical Training Centre (NTTC).
“By bridging the technical skills gap in the industry, “points out Mr Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director/CE0 of Nestlé Nigeria, “we are not only enhancing the employability of our youth but also empowering them to achieve financial independence, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large.”
He describes the initiative as one of the ways they create shared value.
“Our investment in upskilling these bright young minds over the last 13 years reflects our firm belief in the potential of the next generation and our commitment to enabling them to thrive.”
Since its establishment, the Agbara TTC has reportedly produced more than 190 young professionals. One striking indicator of the program’s efficacy and influence is that 97% of its alums have found employment with Nestlé Nigeria.
The initiative created a new world of possibilities for Babajide Adebimpe, one of the 190 beneficiaries.
Although he received outstanding grades in school, Adebimpe had minimal practical experience.
“The skills I learned during the technical training program and the support of the teachers and coordinators have increased my comprehension and confidence.”
Beyond the Technical Training Centre, Nestlé’s commitment to youth empowerment is evident in its comprehensive youth engagement platform, Nestlé Needs YOUth.
The initiative aims to provide young people access to economic opportunities through four key pillars: employment, skill development, support, and increased options.
“We are playing our part to cushion the impact of economic challenges on the youth and prepare them for the future,” articulates Mr Shakiru Lawal, Country Human Resources Manager at Nestlé Nigeria.
He highlights the Internship Program, the Nestlé Youth Development Program, and their active involvement in the Alliance for Youth Nigeria initiative. In total, these initiatives reach over 25,000 youth annually.
Professor Abayomi Adelaja Arigbabu, the State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, lauds the Nestlé Technical Training Centre for its dedication to empowering youth.
He describes technical skills as a formidable asset that can unlock new opportunities.
Shade Daniels, a business owner, notes, “Young people are better equipped to compete in a globalized economy if they possess greater competence.”
“Investing in technical skills,” she asserts, “empowers a generation to seize opportunities, foster innovation, and serve as catalysts for change.”
Nestlé reiterates its conviction that young individuals play a pivotal role in fostering flourishing, resilient communities; therefore, it remains committed to assisting them in developing the capacities and skills essential for securing rewarding employment or establishing their enterprises.
The Company reveals that, through the Global Alliance for Youth initiative, it is working with other organizations to help millions of young people worldwide find jobs, thrive in the workplace, or start businesses.
“Led by Nestle, the alliance of 25 like-minded companies provides training, nurtures young entrepreneurs, and offers first job opportunities,”it elucidates.
“Our ambition is to help 10 million young people around the world access economic opportunities by 2030 through employment and employability, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship.”
