Background of the Study
Youth unemployment remains a significant socio-economic challenge in Nigeria, with many young people struggling to find gainful employment due to a mismatch between their skills and the demands of the labor market. In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, digital skills have become essential for enhancing employability and economic opportunities. Digital skills training programs, ranging from basic computer literacy to advanced technical skills such as programming, data analysis, and digital marketing, have been widely recognized as a strategic approach to addressing youth unemployment.
Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, has a youthful population that faces employment challenges due to limited industrialization and an evolving job market that increasingly requires digital competencies. Several organizations and government initiatives have introduced digital skills training programs aimed at equipping young people with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. Studies suggest that digital training improves employability by providing young people with access to remote job opportunities, entrepreneurship, and enhanced job performance (Adeyemi & Umar, 2023). However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, high costs of internet access, and low awareness of digital opportunities hinder the effectiveness of these programs (Gyang & Mohammed, 2024).
Given the growing importance of digital skills in employment creation, this study seeks to assess the impact of digital skills training on youth employment in Jos South. The research will evaluate the extent to which digital training programs contribute to job creation, self-employment, and income generation among young people in the area. The findings will provide insights for policymakers, training institutions, and stakeholders on how to enhance digital training initiatives to maximize employment opportunities.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the increasing relevance of digital skills in today’s labor market, many young people in Jos South remain unemployed due to a lack of adequate training and exposure to digital opportunities. While some organizations have implemented digital skills training programs, there is limited empirical evidence on their effectiveness in addressing unemployment in the region (Umar & Musa, 2023). Furthermore, issues such as poor internet connectivity, lack of mentorship, and financial constraints limit the impact of these training programs on youth employability (Ibrahim & Yakubu, 2024). This study, therefore, seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of digital skills training in enhancing youth employment in Jos South.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To examine the role of digital skills training in enhancing youth employment in Jos South.
To identify the challenges faced by youth in accessing and utilizing digital skills training.
To assess the impact of digital skills training on income generation and self-employment among youths in Jos South.
1.4 Research Questions
How does digital skills training enhance youth employment in Jos South?
What challenges hinder youth participation in digital skills training programs?
What is the impact of digital skills training on income generation and self-employment in Jos South?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Digital skills training significantly enhances youth employment in Jos South.
Various challenges limit youth participation in digital skills training programs.
Digital skills training positively impacts income generation and self-employment in Jos South.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study provides insights into the role of digital skills training in improving youth employability and economic opportunities. The findings will benefit policymakers, educators, and training institutions by highlighting effective strategies for enhancing digital skills programs. Additionally, the study will help young people understand the importance of digital competencies in securing employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on digital skills training programs in Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, assessing their impact on youth employment. The research does not include other forms of vocational training or employment strategies beyond digital skills training.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Digital Skills Training: Programs designed to teach individuals digital competencies such as computer literacy, programming, and online marketing.
Youth Employment: The ability of young individuals to secure jobs or engage in income-generating activities.
Self-Employment: A form of employment where individuals generate income through entrepreneurship rather than working for an employer.
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