We live in a fast-changing world and are plagued by a myriad of challenges. These include juvenile delinquency, youth engagement in criminal activities, human trafficking and insecurity.
What future for us? We only have today, tomorrow is not certain. Thus, it is highly beneficial for every human being in life to make hay while the sun shines. The sun does not shine all through the day. It has its own specific hours, once they elapse, it goes off.
We must, however, place premium on the development of youths. It would not be out of place to create something like Youth Benefit Scheme, a development campaign that would cater for all-round youth development. It would be dedicated to youths entirely, irrespective of tribe.
It should not be a campaign that government would implement once and hands off. The idea should be implemented across the 36 states of the federation. It would ensure the future of youths is guaranteed and protected.
In a nutshell, it should be a development plan aimed at improving the lives of youths. It would reduce poverty, accelerate smallscale enterprise and also ensure peace and security.
It would be in four segments that are crucial to attaining sustainable youth development: Vocational training enrolment fees, tertiary institution first payment grant and final year student grant, capital for investment grant for skilled youth and unemployed graduate business grant.
Observers note that young people within 15 and 29 years are assets to a country’s development, thus, they should be empowered to realise their potential. They are bound to make a befitting change to the society and are crucial and valuable investment for today and tomorrow.
Thus, it is essential for government to think towards the direction of a youth development plan (Youth Benefit Scheme).
- Abdullahi is a student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai