Anambra State’s Ambitious ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ Program Pioneers Holistic Youth Empowerment

Anambra State has introduced a groundbreaking initiative known as the “One Youth, Two Skills” program, designed to equip every young individual in the state with two valuable and marketable skills.

This comprehensive empowerment package encompasses a range of elements, including entrepreneurship training, apprenticeship opportunities, cooperative establishment, financial support, and personalized mentorship.

In an exclusive interview with NTA Nationwide, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, the Commissioner for Youth Development in Anambra State, highlighted the program as a tangible realization of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s commitment to providing the youth with the necessary tools for success.

“The ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ program goes beyond the conventional political empowerment schemes,” emphasized Aghamba. “We have embraced a community-centric approach, drawing inspiration from the traditional Igbo long apprenticeship model, which researchers worldwide have recognized as an exceptional entrepreneurial strategy.”

Commencing in October 2022, the initiative has already impacted the lives of over 5,983 young individuals. Beneficiaries fall into three distinct categories: those already engaged in businesses, those aspiring to establish new ventures, and the “umuboy” group (comprising youths aged 18 to 45).

Aghamba expressed optimism regarding the program’s potential to combat unemployment and mitigate youth restiveness within Anambra State. He extended gratitude to Governor Soludo for his unwavering dedication to the youth and for actualizing this transformative initiative.