Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Youth employment remains one of the major challenges in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas like Dekina Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State. Despite the country’s large population of youth, many are unable to secure gainful employment due to a lack of relevant skills, inadequate training facilities, and limited access to employment opportunities. Skill acquisition programs, which provide youths with the practical skills necessary for various sectors such as agriculture, technology, and crafts, have emerged as vital solutions to this problem (Adamu & Bello, 2023).
In Dekina, various governmental and non-governmental organizations have implemented skill acquisition programs aimed at reducing youth unemployment and fostering economic self-reliance. These programs are designed to equip young people with the competencies needed for sustainable livelihoods, offering both technical training and entrepreneurship skills. However, despite these efforts, challenges such as limited access to resources, lack of awareness, and ineffective program monitoring have hindered the full realization of the potential benefits of these programs (Ola & Ibrahim, 2024). This study seeks to assess the impact of skill acquisition programs on youth employment in Dekina, identifying the key factors that determine their success and suggesting ways to improve their effectiveness.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
While skill acquisition programs are increasingly recognized as crucial in addressing youth unemployment, their impact in Dekina LGA has not been comprehensively evaluated. There are concerns that despite the large number of youth who participate in these programs, many still face difficulties in securing stable employment. This study aims to assess how effectively skill acquisition programs contribute to youth employment in Dekina and identify the barriers to their success.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of skill acquisition programs in increasing youth employment in Dekina LGA.
To identify the challenges faced by youths in utilizing skills acquired through these programs.
To recommend strategies to improve the impact of skill acquisition programs on youth employment in Dekina.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective are skill acquisition programs in enhancing youth employment in Dekina LGA?
What challenges do youths face in using the skills acquired from these programs?
What measures can be taken to enhance the impact of skill acquisition programs on youth employment?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Participation in skill acquisition programs leads to higher rates of youth employment in Dekina Local Government Area.
Limited access to resources and inadequate program implementation hinder the effectiveness of skill acquisition programs in Dekina.
Improved access to funding and better training opportunities will enhance the success of skill acquisition programs in Dekina.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study’s findings will be valuable for policymakers, educators, and community leaders in Dekina LGA and beyond. It will provide insights into the successes and challenges of skill acquisition programs, offering recommendations to improve their design and implementation. The study will also contribute to the broader debate on youth employment solutions in Nigeria, providing practical suggestions for fostering economic independence among young people.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on youth participation in skill acquisition programs in Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. It will not cover other local government areas or states. A limitation of the study is the potential difficulty in obtaining accurate data on youth employment outcomes due to a lack of comprehensive records or reporting mechanisms.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Skill Acquisition Programs: Training initiatives aimed at providing individuals with practical, vocational skills that can lead to employment or self-employment.
Youth Employment: The employment opportunities available to young people, often focusing on reducing unemployment rates and increasing income-generating activities.
Economic Self-Reliance: The ability of individuals, particularly youth, to sustain themselves economically through employment or entrepreneurship without relying on external support.
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