YESA is a development initiative by CED Foundation to establish Youth Enterprise and Skill Acquisition programs, designed to help young people develop the skills and knowledge they need to start their own businesses or find employment.
Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue worldwide, but the potential for youth-led entrepreneurship and vocational skills is immense. A robust youth enterprise and skill acquisition program can be a catalyst for change, equipping young individuals with the tools and knowledge to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. The CED Foundation’s YESA program will explore its potential to transform the lives of young people, foster economic growth, and create a brighter future. We want to help young people;
- Develop lifetime skills
- Learn how to start and run a business
- Gain work experience
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Connect with other young people who are interested in entrepreneurship
- Improve their chances of finding employment
For young people who are interested in starting their own business or finding employment, a youth enterprise and skill acquisition program can be a great way to get started. There are many different programs available, so you can find one that is a good fit for your interests and needs.
The CED Foundation would be launching applications into the program, and criteria on how to be selected and areas of specialization would also be communicated. However, we are considering;
- Tailoring/Fashion Design
- Catering/Baking
- Hair Making
- Make-up Artistry
- Phone/Electrical Repairs
- Photography
As a young person who is looking to join the YESA program;
- Be prepared to commit time and effort: Participating in a youth enterprise and skill acquisition program requires time and effort. Be sure to set aside time to attend classes, complete assignments, and network with other participants.
- Be open to feedback: The instructors and mentors in a youth enterprise and skill acquisition program are there to help you succeed. Be open to their feedback and suggestions.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you are struggling with a class or assignment, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your instructor or mentor.
- Celebrate your successes: Along the way, be sure to celebrate your successes. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
The YESA program will be open to young people between the ages of 18-35, and the duration will be 3-6 months. The foundation would have the responsibility of recruiting trainers and training enterprises to engage the youths.
After the training is complete, we would provide support to the participants. This support can include helping them to find jobs, start businesses, or access other resources. The CED Foundation would be partnering with other organizations to reach a wider audience and provide more comprehensive services.
The Foundation intends to leverage technology as a valuable tool for delivering training and providing support to participants. Introduce learning tools and other tech products that would generally influence the outcome and productivity of the participants.
The foundation is very intentional about its goals and its contributions to the SDGs. In line with the aims of the SDGs, the YESA program will address the following;
- Goal 1: No poverty: YESA would create jobs and generate income, which can help to lift people out of poverty.
- Goal 2: Quality education: YESA would provide vocational training and other educational opportunities, which can help young people to develop the skills they need to succeed.
- Goal 3: Gender equality: YESA would promote gender equality by providing equal opportunities for women and men to participate in the workforce.
- Goal 4: Decent work and economic growth: YESA would create jobs and generate income, which can help to boost economic growth and reduce unemployment.
- Goal 5: Reduced inequalities: YESA would help to reduce inequalities by providing opportunities for people from all backgrounds to participate in the economy.
- Goal 6: Sustainable cities and communities: YESA would encourage the creation of sustainable cities and communities by providing jobs, generating income, and promoting environmental sustainability.
- Goal 7: Peace, justice, and strong institutions: YESA would aid the promotion of peace, justice, and strong institutions by creating jobs, generating income, and providing opportunities for young people to participate in the affairs of the country and world at large.
- Goal 8: Partnerships for the goals: YESA would encourage the achievement of the SDGs by working with government, businesses, and other organizations to develop and implement solutions to the challenges facing the world.
In addition to achieving the SDGs, YESA can also provide a number of other benefits for young people, such as:
- Increased self-esteem and confidence: Starting a business can help young people to develop a sense of self-efficacy and confidence.
- Improved job skills and knowledge: Youth enterprises can provide young people with the opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable work experience.
- Increased financial independence: Youth enterprises can help young people to become financially independent and contribute to their families and communities.
- A sense of purpose and belonging: Starting a business can give young people a sense of purpose and belonging in their community.
- A platform for social change: Youth enterprises can be used to address social issues, such as poverty, hunger, and inequality.
The schedule for the YESA program will allow for practical training, mentorship, and hands-on experience. The foundation would monitor and evaluate the program’s effectiveness and impact. Collect feedback from participants, trainers, and mentors to identify areas of improvement. Encourage networking and collaboration among participants to foster a sense of community and peer learning. Develop a sustainability plan to ensure the program’s long-term viability. Explore opportunities for partnerships with businesses, government agencies, or other stakeholders to secure ongoing support and funding. Consider expanding the program to reach more youth or replicate it in other communities, if feasible.
A youth enterprise and skill acquisition program holds the potential to transform the lives of young people, ignite economic growth, and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By providing youths with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support, we empower them to take charge of their futures, create employment opportunities, and contribute to their communities. Together, let us champion the cause of youth empowerment, nurturing the next generation of changemakers and leaders.