Graduating students have been urged to prioritize skills acquisition, which has been described as a solution to unemployment in the 21st century.
Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, Director General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), conveyed this message during the 37th Graduation, Speech, and Prize-Giving Day Ceremony of Command Secondary School, Jos, for the 2023/2024 academic session. Represented by Mr. Akpan Idongesit Asuquo, Director of Standardization, Certification, and Consultancy Services at ITF, Dr. Ogun delivered a keynote address on the theme “Skills Acquisition: A Panacea for Unemployment in the 21st Century.”
In his lecture, Dr. Ogun emphasized the importance of skill acquisition for both individuals and the nation. He highlighted that skills such as welding, plumbing, tailoring, and electrical work are crucial in reducing unemployment, which stood at 33.9% for the third quarter of 2023, with youth unemployment particularly high at over 60% among those aged 15 to 34.
Dr. Ogun pointed out several factors contributing to unemployment, including rapid population growth, inadequate educational systems, skills mismatches in the labor market, and economic instability. He stressed that skill acquisition could mitigate these issues by enhancing employability, promoting self-reliance, and driving economic growth.
“The ITF has implemented various programs to promote skills development, including the National Industrial Skills Development Program (NISDP), the Technical Skills Development Program, and the Women Skills Empowerment Program (WISEP). These initiatives aim to equip students and individuals with practical skills needed in various industries and entrepreneurial activities”. He said
The Special Guest of Honor, Maj Gen AE, GOC 3 Div/Commander OPSH, represented by Brigadier Gen MO Agi, Chief of Staff OPSH, also addressed the attendees. He commended the graduating students for their discipline, patriotism, and academic achievements. He urged them to remain resilient and maintain good character as they pursue their future endeavors.
Acting Commandant Lt Col HB Yusuf highlighted the school’s achievements and the challenges it faces. He noted that Command Secondary School, established in 1977, continues to provide quality education to both military and civilian children despite infrastructural and financial constraints.
Special guests at the event included Distinguished Senator, Chief Joshua C. Dariye, represented by Chief Gideon Yiltu, and Mrs. Virginia Jang, Mother of the Day. His Royal Highness, Mallam Bala Ali Mohammed, Talba Babba Jos North (Pozah Kulu), and Maj Gen BA Tsoho also graced the occasion.
The ceremony featured cultural dances, comedy presentations, and the launch of the school magazine. Graduating students were introduced, and farewell speeches were delivered by the outgoing head boy and head girl. Prizes were awarded to outstanding students, and the event concluded with the presentation of honorarium by Acting Commandant Lt Col HB Yusuf and a group photograph.
