The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has encouraged youths to utilize government policies as a tool to combat unemployment. Speaking at the 21st convocation lecture of Igbinedion University, Akume revealed that over N10 billion has been allocated in the budget for youth-focused programs.
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on youth, Akume urged the graduating students to leverage these policies to address the challenge of unemployment. He emphasized, “Over N10 billion was allocated in the budget for youths-focused programs so they must take advantage of it. The present administration is focusing on youths, so they must take advantage of the policies of the government to tackle unemployment.”
Delivering a lecture titled “Public and Private Sector Intervention in Tertiary Education in Nigeria: Stimulus for Innovative Research and Development,” Akume stressed that a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors is essential to drive research and development in Nigeria.
He noted that since the establishment of Igbinedion University in 1999 as the first private university in Nigeria, private investment in tertiary education has complemented the public sector.
Akume further stated, “We must agree that the future of Nigeria lies in the quality of education we provide in our tertiary institutions. With collaboration between public and private sectors, we can stimulate research and development, thereby driving sustainable growth and ensuring a brighter future for our great nation.”
Acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government in improving the quality of life for Nigerians, he commended the President’s initiatives to attract investors and revitalize the economy.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, highlighted the institution’s achievements and announced a partnership with Harvard University on malaria eradication research and training in Africa. He also revealed the university’s anticipation of its silver jubilee in May 2024 as the premier private university in the country.