The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has informed stakeholders across Africa that Nigeria’s active involvement in Youth Connekt Africa is a testament to its commitment to formulating practical solutions to significantly improve youth empowerment. young people across the continent.

The Minister made this commitment during the Youth Connekt Africa Ministerial Policy Roundtable on Young Rural Entrepreneurs’ Access to Finance, initiated by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in partnership with the Government of Rwanda.

The summit, focused on the theme “Jobs for Youth through Innovative Skills”, took place in Kigali, Rwanda.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, Olawande disclosed that the summit aims to equip African youth with digital skills, foster entrepreneurship and create employment pathways aligned with market needs to fight against youth unemployment.

He noted that the initiative would also promote talent, innovation and economic opportunities within the continent.

Olawande said the event strategically aimed at bridging the gap between education and employment, adding that it sought to equip Africa’s youth with essential strategic tools, resources and connections to foster career growth in the long term, allowing them to excel in the world. economy.

“This summit will improve access to finance for youth-led businesses and support digital skills and technological innovation in job creation through programs that connect them to market-relevant skills, mentoring and opportunities in emerging areas like ICT and creative industries,” he said. .