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Experts task youths on self-discovery to tackle joblessness

By Toyin Olasinde
22 November 2016   |   2:20 am
Indeed, a worrying data released recently by the National Bureau of Staticstis (NBS) said unemployment rate has risen from 12.1 per cent in the first quarter of this year to 13.3 per cent as at the end of the second quarter.
Yemi Kale

Yemi Kale

Youths have been urged to embark on self-rediscovery to unearth the innate talent as a means to tackle unemployment.

Indeed, a worrying data released recently by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said unemployment rate has risen from 12.1 per cent in the first quarter of this year to 13.3 per cent as at the end of the second quarter.

In the report, the bureau said the number of people that were unemployed or underemployed increased from 24.4 million as at the end of the first quarter to 26.06 million persons.

Speaking in Lagos at the celebration of International students day, by the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) with the theme ‘Beyound School Certificate’ (BSC) the Group Human Resource Manager, Slot system Limited, Akomolafe Gabriel said youths need to discover their inbuilt talent rather than waiting for white collar jobs.

He said: “To achieve in life is not all about what you study in school. That does matter but students should major in subject they enjoy; they should pursue learning.”

He explained that getting employment is beyond the certificate, but what can be done with the inbuilt skills.

“Be willing to do grunt work, by doing the entry-level jobs, you’re building skills necessary to move up. As you progress in your career, find things in each job to be passionate about,” he stated.

Also speaking MD/CEO, Integrated Corporate Service Limited; Peter Akindeju, said going to school is a good start but doing well in school will push youths on their way.

He said: “Good grades provide the fundamental foundation required for flying high in life. Good grades make it easier for you to get good jobs in a highly competitive world, but the journey does not end there. In addition to finishing with good grades, you need to train yourself further, develop inter- personal and communication skills. Get certifications in as many fields that you may be interested it.”

He added youths need to do more research of the job market and the industry they desire to work in.

His explanation: “Know what has been done in the industry and the gaps to be filled. Find out if there is a new way of doing things and how you can be relevant in the job industry. Get an industry-based mentor. Seek their counsel, not their money, and you will be successful. Do not be a nuisance; everybody has his own burdens in this challenging economy. All these stand you out and increase the chances of employment and having a good start to life.

“The difference between your dreams and reality is called action”. Seize this moment because some opportunities don’t come twice. Study hard, learn patiently, keep a clean record, live a life worthy of leadership so that when you eventually become a leader, you will not be messed up.”

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