RETHINKING EMPLOYMENT STRATEGIES: A Critique of State Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition Programmes

The governor of Delta State, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori recently spoke of entrepreneurship, skills acquisition as key to wealth creation. It's regrettable that the current governor persists in following the unsuccessful strategies of the past two administrations in the State.

For years, the State government has invested in entrepreneurship and skills acquisition programs with the aim of empowering individuals and driving economic development. However, the persistent challenge of identifying successful beneficiaries across the State raises questions about the effectiveness of these initiatives. Despite the significant investments and efforts poured into these initiatives, identifying successful beneficiaries remains a daunting task.

The State government often touted entrepreneurship and skills acquisition as key pillars for economic growth and wealth creation. However, the implementation of the programme often fell short of their lofty promises. In many cases, these initiatives serve as mere facades, disguising a more insidious reality of corruption and mismanagement of public resources.

The last two administrations were very vocal about the importance of entrepreneurship and skills acquisition in driving economic development. They painted a rosy picture of a future where every citizen has the opportunity to become a successful entrepreneur or skilled professional. Yet, despite the grandiose promises, little tangible progress was made on the ground. The gap between rhetoric and reality continues to widen, leaving many disillusioned with the government's failed programme.

On the surface, government-sponsored entrepreneurship and skills acquisition programs may appear to be genuine efforts to uplift communities and empower individuals. However, closer scrutiny often reveals a different story. These programs are frequently riddled with corruption, nepotism, and inefficiency. Instead of fostering genuine economic growth, these programmes become vehicles for lining the pockets of the political elite, as ordinary citizens bear the brunt of their greed. 

For many aspiring entrepreneurs and job seekers, these programs represent their only hope for a better future. When that hope is dashed by corruption and incompetence, the human cost is immeasurable. Dreams are shattered, livelihoods are lost, and communities are left languishing in poverty.

If Delta State truly desires to uplift its citizens from unemployment and foster sustainable development, it must prioritize transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in its approach to skills acquisition and empowerment initiatives. Anything less would only perpetuate the cycle of exploitation and disenchantment among its 

On the other hand, the State government should encourage Industrial growth as a Solution to graduate unemployment.

An effective approach to tackling this problem is for the State government to actively incentivize industries to establish themselves within the State. By creating a conducive environment for industrial growth, the State can generate employment opportunities tailored to the skill sets of graduates, thereby alleviating the burden of unemployment. 

Encouraging industries to locate within the State can create a diverse range of job opportunities suitable for graduates across various fields. Whether it's manufacturing, technology, healthcare, or services, each industry requires a skilled workforce comprising individuals with specialized knowledge and qualifications. By attracting a mix of industries, the State can cater to the diverse talents of its graduate population, ensuring that there are ample employment prospects available.

Moreover, the establishment of industries within the State can stimulate economic growth and development. When companies set up operations locally, they contribute to the State's tax revenue, bolstering its financial resources. This, in turn, enables the government to invest in infrastructure, education, and other essential services that further enhance the state's attractiveness as a hub for employment and investment.

Additionally, a thriving industrial sector can lead to the development of ancillary businesses and support services, creating a ripple effect of job creation throughout the economy. Fostering industrial growth can have a positive impact on innovation and entrepreneurship within the State. 

While entrepreneurship and skills acquisition programs have their merits, the State government must prioritize transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in its approach.

But it is also fundamental to look at a more nuanced approach that combines influencing industries to the State with supportive infrastructure investment. 

By shifting the paradigm from short-term fixes to long-term systemic changes, the State can better support its graduate population and promote inclusive growth.