The Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan-Liman, has emphasized the importance of acquiring essential skills to address the ongoing unemployment crisis in Nigeria. Speaking in Keffi Local Government Area during the Exhibition of Students’ Products, organized by the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, she urged young people nationwide to focus on skill development as a means of enhancing their economic prospects.

Highlighting the reality that not everyone will secure a traditional office job, Prof. Hassan-Liman encouraged youth to commit to cultivating their skills and talents to improve their livelihoods. She also called on political leaders to establish more skill acquisition programs, which would empower the younger generation to achieve self-reliance and financial independence, ultimately contributing to societal growth.

The Vice Chancellor commended the efforts of lecturers and staff within the entrepreneurship department for their role in preparing students to become future employers. “In today’s Nigeria, students should acquire skills that will equip them for the future, enabling them to start their own businesses and generate income while seeking traditional employment,” she stated.

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Dr. Monica Agu, head of the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, noted that the exhibition provided students with an opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, artistic talents, and technological advancements. She emphasized the urgent need for students to develop practical skills to avoid the common post-graduation scenario of job hunting.

Dr. Vincent Paul, a lecturer at the university, expressed appreciation for the attendance of dignitaries at the event and highlighted the diverse skills students had learned, including paint making, soap making, photography, baking, fashion design, graphic design, and event management. He affirmed that the training provided quality skills aimed at ensuring effective production and marketing, complementing governmental and private sector efforts to serve the citizens better.