Integrate Green Skill Development in your Plans for youths – Clement Isong Foundation Tells Akwa Ibom Government
By Ekemini Simon
A Non-Governmental Organisation, Clement Isong Foundation (CIF)has called on the government of Akwa Ibom State to integrate green skill development in its plans for Akwa Ibom youths.
The call was part of a resolution reached at the end of the Green Skill Symposium held in commemoration of the International Youth Day 2023.
The event which was organized by Clement Isong Foundation with funding support from ActionAid Nigeria and DANIDA on August 23, 2023, was held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
In a Communique made available to newsmen, Clement Isong Foundation called on relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as well as state actors in Akwa Ibom State to ensure the development of green skills among the youths and also promote environmental sustainability within the state.
They noted that this can be achieved through provision of integrated green skill curriculum, youth-centric skill centres, green skill internship programmes, mentorship and apprenticeship initiatives, green enterprise support fund and green skills recognition and certification.
Others are collaborative research and development, green infrastructure development, public awareness campaigns, incentives for green businesses, youth-driven policy participation and partnerships with NGOs.
Explaining how these can be done, the organisation noted that on an Integrated green skill curriculum, there is a need for the Ministry of Education to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to integrate green skill components into the formal education curriculum at all levels.
CIF said that this integration will ensure that young individuals are equipped with foundational knowledge and skills in environmental conservation, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
On youth-centric skill centres, they called on the Ministry of Youth and Sports to establish dedicated skill centres focused on providing comprehensive training in various green skills. CIF said these centres should offer specialized courses, workshops, and practical training in areas such as renewable energy technologies, sustainable agriculture practices, waste recycling, and eco-friendly entrepreneurship.
For green skill internship programmes, the organisation recommended MDAs, in partnership with private sector organisations to establish internship programmes that offer youth hands-on experience in green industries. They said this will provide practical exposure and skill development opportunities, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
The communiqué added ” Collaborative Research and Development: MDAs, educational institutions, and research organizations should collaborate on research projects focused on sustainable technologies and practices. This will foster innovation and encourage the development of localized solutions to environmental challenges.
“Green Infrastructure Development: The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure should prioritize the development of green infrastructure, such as renewable energy installations, eco-friendly transportation systems, and waste management facilities. These projects will not only create employment opportunities but also contribute to a more sustainable urban environment.
“Public Awareness Campaigns: MDAs should collectively initiate public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting green consciousness and behavior change among the youth. These campaigns should educate the public on the benefits of green practices and the adverse effects of environmental degradation.”
Explaining the need for incentives for green businesses, the Foundation said the state government should consider providing tax incentives, grants, and preferential treatment to businesses that actively engage in environmentally sustainable practices. They said this will encourage the private sector to invest in green initiatives and technologies.
On recommendation for youth-driven policy participation, the resolution noted that MDAs should establish platforms for meaningful youth participation in policy formulation and decision-making processes related to environmental sustainability. They said this will empower youth to contribute their insights and ideas to shape policies that impact their future.
CIF urged the MDAs to forge partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) that specialize in environmental conservation and youth development. They said these partnerships will amplify efforts, share resources, and enhance the impact of green skill initiatives.
The organisation noted that by implementing the recommended policies, Akwa Ibom State would cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious and skilled youth who are well-equipped to address the challenges of climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future.