A

Term Paper

On

Soc 311 Methods Of Social Research

Identify Any Social Problems In Your Own Community And Write The Relevance Of Research To
Investigation Of That Problems.

Written by

Umoh, Stephen James

20/CE/SS/SA/015

Department of Sociology and Anthropology

Faculty of Social Science

University of Uyo

Submitted to

Dr. V. Ben

Department of Sociology and Anthropology

Faculty of Social Science

University of Uyo

March, 2024
Title: Youth Unemployment in the Community of Obio Ibiono

INTRODUCTION

Unemployment among youths remains a cankerworm which has eaten deep into the crucibles of the
nation. It remains a subject of discourse which requires quick and immediate solution in a country that
yearns to compete with developed nations of the world. The youths comprise of the active labour force
of a country in its production and policy implementation process and there is a need to fully engage
them in the affairs of the nation. “The role of youths in nation building in recent times has generated
serious discussions and clear cut policy agenda which are necessary for the development, plan and
policy action of any country” (Aniefiok, 2014). This indicates the importance of the youths in nation
building and their capacity in nation building must not be underestimated as they remain Nigeria’s
future leaders.

The definition of a youth differs from one country to another based on the laws governing such country.
The youth as defined by the Nigerian Population Commission in Osakwe (2013) are young persons
between the ages of 18 and 24 as the conundrum here is that the legally considered age of an adult is 18
with a voting right. According to the Second National Youth Policy Document of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria (2009) youths are persons between the ages of 18-35 years, male and female who are citizens of
Nigeria. The United Nation has defined youth as persons in the age range of 15-24 years, while the
World Health Organization reporting on violence and health categorize youth as persons between the
ages of 10 and 29. In Sierra-Leone, the United Nation Peace-Building Commission defines youth as
belonging to the ages of 15 and 35.

Youth unemployment is a pressing issue that affects communities around the world, including Obio
Ibiono, a region in Nigeria. This document aims to explore the causes, consequences, and potential
solutions to youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono. By understanding the factors contributing to this issue,
stakeholders can work towards developing targeted interventions to address the problem and create
opportunities for young people in the community.
OVERVIEW OF OBIO IBIONO

Obio Ibiono is located in the region of Akwa Ibom. Akwa Ibom's capital Uyo (Uyo) is approximately 8.6
km / 5.3 mi away from Obio Ibiono (as the crow flies). The distance from Obio Ibiono to Nigeria's capital
Abuja (Abuja) is approximately 447 km / 278 mi (as the crow flies). The population is unknown.

- Importance of addressing youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono for the overall development and well-
being of the community

There are several reasons why addressing youth unemployment is crucial for the well-being of the
community:

1. Economic growth: High levels of youth unemployment can have a negative impact on the economy as
young people are often unable to contribute to the workforce and generate income. Addressing youth
unemployment can help boost economic growth by increasing the number of productive workers in the
labor market.

2. Social cohesion: Youth unemployment can lead to social exclusion, frustration, and alienation among
young people, which can have negative consequences for the overall social cohesion of the community.
By providing opportunities for young people to participate in the workforce, we can help promote a
more inclusive and harmonious society.

3. Health and well-being: Unemployment is often associated with poor mental and physical health
outcomes, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Addressing youth
unemployment can help improve the health and well-being of young people, leading to a happier and
more productive community.

4. Crime prevention: High levels of youth unemployment are often linked to higher rates of crime and
antisocial behavior. By providing opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful employment,
we can help reduce the likelihood of them turning to criminal activities as a means of survival.

5. Sustainable development: Investing in youth employment is essential for sustainable development as

young people are the future leaders and innovators of society. By ensuring that young people have
access to education, training, and employment opportunities, we can help build a more resilient and
prosperous community for future generations.

Overall, addressing youth unemployment is not only important for the well-being of young people
themselves but also for the overall social, economic, and sustainable development of the community as
a whole. Investing in youth employment is an investment in the future of our society.

DEFINITION AND SCOPE OF YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

Youth unemployment refers to the situation where individuals in the specified age group who are
actively seeking employment are unable to find a job. The age group typically encompasses individuals
between the ages of 15 and 24. Youth unemployment is a significant issue worldwide, as it can have
long-lasting effects on individuals' future job prospects and economic opportunities. Youth
unemployment can have a significant impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. When
young people are unable to find work, they may experience feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, and
hopelessness. This can have a negative impact on their mental health and overall well-being.

For families, youth unemployment can place a financial strain on household budgets, especially if the
unemployed individual is a primary breadwinner. This can lead to increased stress and tension within
the family, as well as feelings of guilt and shame for not being able to provide for themselves or their
loved ones.

On a societal level, youth unemployment can have wide-ranging implications. It can lead to a decrease in
consumer spending, as unemployed individuals have less disposable income to contribute to the
economy. This can have a ripple effect on businesses, leading to layoffs and closures. Additionally, youth
unemployment can contribute to social unrest and political instability, as disenfranchised youth may
become more susceptible to radicalization and extremist ideologies.

Overall, youth unemployment is a complex issue that requires a coordinated response from
governments, businesses, and community organizations. Efforts to address youth unemployment should
focus on providing education and training opportunities, promoting job creation, and supporting mental
health and well-being initiatives for young people. By addressing youth unemployment, we can create a
more stable and prosperous society for future generations.

According to recent data, the youth unemployment rate in Obio Ibiono is approximately 27%. This rate is
slightly lower than the national average of 33.3% but higher than the regional average of 24.5%. Youth
unemployment in Obio Ibiono remains a significant issue, with many young people struggling to find
stable and meaningful employment opportunities in the area. Efforts to address this issue and provide
support and resources to unemployed youth in the region are ongoing.

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN OBIO IBIONO

A. Lack of Education and Skills

Limited access to quality education and vocational training programs can significantly contribute to
youth unemployment in several ways. Firstly, without proper education and training, young people may
lack the necessary skills and qualifications to secure stable employment opportunities. This can result in
high levels of youth unemployment as they are unable to compete in the job market.
Furthermore, inadequate access to quality education and vocational training may lead to a mismatch
between the skills young people possess and the skills required by employers. This mismatch can make
it difficult for young people to find suitable employment, resulting in higher rates of unemployment.
Additionally, limited access to quality education and vocational training programs can perpetuate cycles
of poverty and disadvantage. Without the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and qualifications,
young people from disadvantaged backgrounds may struggle to break out of poverty and secure stable
employment.

Overall, addressing the issue of limited access to quality education and vocational training programs is
crucial in reducing youth unemployment and empowering young people to achieve economic stability
and success. Investing in education and training opportunities for young people can help to bridge the
skills gap, increase employment opportunities, and break cycles of poverty and disadvantage. It is
essential for governments, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to prioritize and invest in
quality education and vocational training programs to support youth employment and economic
prosperity.

The skills gap among young people in Obio Ibiono can have a significant impact on their employability
and ability to secure gainful employment. This gap refers to the mismatch between the skills that young
people possess and the skills that are in demand in the labor market. One of the key reasons for the
skills gap among young people in Obio Ibiono is the lack of access to quality education and training
opportunities. Many young people in the area may not have the opportunity to receive a good
education, which can result in them lacking the necessary skills and qualifications required by
employers.

Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancement and globalization has led to a changing job
market, with an increasing demand for technical and digital skills. Young people who do not have access
to training in these areas may find themselves at a disadvantage when competing for jobs.

The skills gap also affects the overall economy of Obio Ibiono, as businesses may struggle to find
qualified candidates to fill vacant positions. This can lead to a shortage of skilled workers in key
industries, hindering economic growth and development in the area.

To address the skills gap among young people in Obio Ibiono, it is essential for stakeholders to invest in
quality education and training programs that equip young people with the skills needed to succeed in
the modern job market. This can include vocational training, apprenticeship programs, and partnerships
with businesses to ensure that young people are gaining relevant skills and experience.

By closing the skills gap and improving the employability of young people in Obio Ibiono, the area can
benefit from a more skilled workforce, increased productivity, and enhanced economic development. It
is crucial for both government and private sector organizations to work together to provide young
people with the opportunities and resources needed to bridge the skills gap and secure meaningful
employment opportunities.
B. Limited Job Opportunities

Formal employment opportunities are crucial for the economic development of any community, as they
provide stability, security, and growth prospects for individuals.

Availability of Formal Employment Opportunities in Obio Ibiono: Obio Ibiono is predominantly an

agrarian community, with agriculture being the main source of income for the majority of its residents.
However, there are also opportunities for formal employment in various sectors such as education,
healthcare, government services, and small-scale industries. The local government area has some
primary and secondary schools, health centers, government offices, and small businesses that provide
formal employment opportunities for the residents.

Despite the availability of formal employment opportunities in Obio Ibiono, young people in the
community face several challenges in accessing these jobs. Some of the challenges include:

1. Limited Educational Opportunities: Many young people in Obio Ibiono do not have access to quality
education, which limits their chances of securing formal employment opportunities. The lack of
educational infrastructure and resources in the community hinders the youth from acquiring the
necessary skills and qualifications for formal jobs.

2. Lack of Skills and Training: Even for those who have received some level of education, the lack of
vocational training and skills development programs in Obio Ibiono means that many young people do
not have the necessary skills required for formal employment in various sectors.

3. Limited Job Opportunities: The formal job market in Obio Ibiono is relatively small, with limited
opportunities available for young people. This scarcity of formal employment opportunities means that
competition for available jobs is high, making it difficult for young people to secure employment.

4. Gender Inequality: Gender inequality is a significant challenge faced by young women in accessing
formal employment opportunities in Obio Ibiono. Cultural norms and societal expectations often restrict
women's access to formal jobs, leading to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment among
young women in the community.

5. Lack of Infrastructure and Investment: The lack of infrastructure and investment in Obio Ibiono
hinders the growth of industries and businesses in the community, limiting the availability of formal
employment opportunities for young people.

C. Economic and Social Factors

Economic factors contributing to youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono include:

1. Lack of job opportunities: The limited number of available jobs in the region makes it difficult for
young people to find employment.

2. Poor economic conditions: Obio Ibiono may suffer from economic instability, which can lead to a lack
of investment and job creation.

3. Low levels of education and skills: Many young people in Obio Ibiono may not have access to quality
education and training programs, limiting their job prospects.

4. Informal economy: The prevalence of informal employment in the region may offer limited job
security and benefits for young people.

Social factors contributing to youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono include:

1. Nepotism and favoritism: Young people may face challenges in securing employment due to
discrimination and preferential treatment based on family connections or personal relationships.

2. Gender discrimination: Young women in Obio Ibiono may face additional barriers to employment
opportunities due to traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

3. Lack of support services: There may be limited access to social services, such as career counseling, job
placement assistance, and skills training programs, for young people in Obio Ibiono.

4. Migration: Young people in Obio Ibiono may leave the region in search of better job opportunities,
leading to a brain drain and exacerbating youth unemployment rates.

CONSEQUENCES OF YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

Youth unemployment can have far-reaching consequences on both individuals and society as a whole. In
terms of individuals, being unemployed at a young age can have a negative impact on their future career
prospects, as well as their mental and physical well-being. Without a job, young people may struggle to
gain the necessary skills and experience needed to secure employment in the future, leading to a cycle
of unemployment and poverty.

Youth unemployment can also have social and economic repercussions. High levels of youth
unemployment can lead to increased crime rates, as young people may turn to illegal activities to
support themselves. It can also result in a lack of social cohesion, as unemployed youth may feel
disengaged from society and more prone to feelings of alienation and social exclusion.

From an economic perspective, youth unemployment can lead to a decrease in overall productivity and
economic growth. As a significant portion of the population remains unemployed, there is less consumer
spending and a smaller tax base, which can lead to decreased government revenue and funding for
essential services and programs.

Overall, the consequences of youth unemployment are wide-ranging and can have a lasting impact on
individuals, society, and the economy as a whole. It is crucial for policymakers to address this issue
through targeted interventions and programs to support young people in finding meaningful
employment opportunities.

CASE STUDIES AND BEST PRACTICES

One successful intervention that has been implemented in various communities facing similar challenges
with youth unemployment is the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) in the European Union. The YEI aims
to provide young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET) with opportunities for work
experience, training, and job placements. Through partnerships with businesses, schools, and
government agencies, the YEI has been able to connect young people with meaningful work
opportunities and support their transition into the labor market.

Another successful program is the YouthBuild USA program, which focuses on providing education,
training, and leadership development to low-income youth who have dropped out of school. YouthBuild
participants engage in hands-on construction projects while earning their high school diploma or GED,
gaining valuable job skills and experience in the process. The program has been shown to significantly
reduce the rate of youth unemployment among its participants and increase their chances of long-term
career success. In addition, social enterprise initiatives such as Street Soccer USA have proven to be
effective in addressing youth unemployment in urban communities. By providing job training,
mentorship, and support services to disadvantaged youth, Street Soccer USA helps participants build the
skills and confidence they need to secure stable employment and improve their socioeconomic status.
The program also promotes teamwork, leadership, and healthy lifestyle choices, which can have long-
lasting benefits for at-risk youth.

Overall, successful interventions and programs for addressing youth unemployment often involve a
combination of job training, education, mentorship, and support services to help young people
overcome barriers to employment and achieve their career goals. By investing in programs that address
the unique needs of youth in different communities, we can help reduce youth unemployment rates and
create more opportunities for young people to succeed in the labor market.

The key components of successful initiatives for addressing youth unemployment, such as the Youth
Employment Initiative in the European Union, YouthBuild USA program, and Street Soccer USA, can be
adapted and implemented in the context of Obio Ibiono, a local government area in Nigeria, to
effectively tackle the challenges of youth unemployment in the region. Here is an analysis of how these
key components can be adapted:
1. Job Training and Skills Development: Providing young people in Obio Ibiono with access to job training
and skills development programs is crucial to preparing them for entry into the labor market. This could
involve partnerships with local businesses, industries, and vocational training centers to offer relevant
training in high-demand sectors such as agriculture, technology, and construction.

2. Education and Leadership Development: Offering educational opportunities, such as GED programs or
vocational training, can help youth in Obio Ibiono acquire the knowledge and skills needed for
meaningful employment. Furthermore, leadership development programs can help young people build
confidence, communication skills, and teamwork abilities that are essential for success in the workplace.

3. Mentorship and Support Services: Providing mentorship and support services to young people in Obio
Ibiono can help them navigate the challenges of finding employment and advancing in their careers.
Mentors can offer guidance, advice, and networking opportunities, while support services can address
barriers such as transportation, childcare, or mental health issues that may hinder young people's access
to employment opportunities.

4. Social Enterprise Initiatives: Implementing social enterprise initiatives in Obio Ibiono, similar to the
Street Soccer USA program, can help create job opportunities for young people while addressing societal
needs. For example, setting up a social enterprise focused on sustainable agriculture or eco-tourism
could not only provide employment opportunities but also contribute to the community's economic
development and environmental sustainability.

By adapting and implementing these key components of successful initiatives in Obio Ibiono,
stakeholders can work together to reduce youth unemployment rates, empower young people with the
skills and resources they need to succeed, and create a more inclusive and thriving local economy for
the future.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the findings and analysis presented in this document, here are some policy recommendations
for addressing youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono:

1. Establish a Youth Employment Task Force: Create a dedicated task force consisting of government
officials, business leaders, educators, and community members to develop and implement strategies to
address youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono. This task force can coordinate efforts, pool resources, and
ensure accountability in tackling this issue.

2. Promote Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development: Support young people in Obio Ibiono to
start their businesses by providing access to funding, mentorship, and training programs. Encourage the
development of entrepreneurship hubs and incubators to nurture young entrepreneurs and help them
navigate the challenges of starting and running a business.

3. Enhance Vocational Training and Skills Development Programs: Partner with local businesses and
industry associations to design vocational training programs that are aligned with the needs of the labor
market in Obio Ibiono. Offer scholarships and incentives for young people to enroll in these programs
and acquire in-demand skills that can increase their employability.

4. Strengthen Career Guidance and Counseling Services: Improve access to career guidance and
counseling services for young people in Obio Ibiono to help them make informed decisions about their
education and career paths. Provide workshops, seminars, and online resources to assist youth in
developing their job-seeking skills, preparing resumes, and enhancing their interview techniques.

5. Expand Internship and Apprenticeship Opportunities: Collaborate with local businesses and industries
to create more internship and apprenticeship opportunities for young people in Obio Ibiono. These
programs can provide valuable hands-on experience, build networks, and increase the chances of
securing employment after completion.

6. Address Infrastructure and Transportation Challenges: Invest in infrastructure development and

transportation systems in Obio Ibiono to connect young people to job opportunities in urban centers
and industrial zones. Improve road networks, public transportation, and digital connectivity to facilitate
mobility and access to employment for youth in rural areas.

By implementing these policy recommendations, Obio Ibiono can effectively combat youth
unemployment and create a conducive environment for the economic empowerment of young people
in the community. Collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society stakeholders is
essential to ensure the successful implementation of these strategies and achieve sustainable outcomes
in reducing youth unemployment in Obio Ibiono.

The implementation of any recommendations for societal change requires a collaborative effort
between various stakeholders, including the government, civil society, private sector, and other
organizations. Each of these stakeholders plays a unique role in the process of implementing
recommendations and driving change.

The government has a critical role to play in implementing recommendations through policy-making,
regulation, and funding. Governments have the power to enact laws and regulations that can support
and enforce the implementation of recommendations, as well as allocate resources and funding to
support initiatives that align with the recommendations. Government agencies also play a role in
monitoring and evaluating the progress of implementation efforts.

Civil society organizations, including non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and community-based
organizations, often play a key role in advocating for change and holding governments and other
stakeholders accountable for implementing recommendations. Civil society can mobilize public support,
raise awareness, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities to ensure that their needs are
addressed in the implementation process.
The private sector, including businesses and corporations, can also play a significant role in
implementing recommendations by integrating them into their operations and business practices.
Private sector companies can adopt sustainable and socially responsible practices, invest in community
development initiatives, and collaborate with other stakeholders to drive positive change.

Other stakeholders, such as academia, think tanks, and international organizations, can provide
research, expertise, and technical assistance to support the implementation process. These stakeholders
can contribute valuable insights, data, and analysis to guide decision-making and evaluate the impact of
implementation efforts.

Overall, successful implementation of recommendations for societal change requires a coordinated and
collaborative effort among all stakeholders. By working together, governments, civil society, the private
sector, and other organizations can create a more inclusive, sustainable, and just society.

CONCLUSION

Key findings:

1. High youth unemployment rate in Obio Ibiono due to lack of industries and job opportunities in the
area.

2. Limited access to quality education and skill development programs.

3. Lack of government support and funding for youth entrepreneurship initiatives.

4. Social and economic factors contributing to unemployment, such as poverty, lack of infrastructure,
and inadequate social services.

Recommendations:

1. Encourage the establishment of industries and businesses in Obio Ibiono through incentives and
support from the government.
2. Strengthen education and skill development programs to equip youth with the necessary
qualifications and experience for employment.

3. Invest in youth entrepreneurship programs and provide funding and support for young people to start
their own businesses.

4. Improve infrastructure and social services in the area to create a conducive environment for
economic growth and job creation.

5. Collaborate with local communities, businesses, and organizations to address the root causes of youth
unemployment and develop sustainable solutions.

It is crucial for community leaders, businesses, and organizations to take proactive steps towards
creating opportunities for young people in our community. By investing in youth development
programs, mentorship initiatives, and skills training, we can empower young individuals to reach their
full potential and contribute to the economic growth of our community. Inclusive economic
development is not only about creating jobs and expanding businesses, but also about ensuring that all
members of our community have the opportunity to participate and benefit from economic growth. By
providing support, resources, and access to opportunities for marginalized groups, we can create a more
equitable and thriving community for everyone.

We must continue to prioritize the needs of our youth and work together to break down barriers to
success. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and support, we can build a stronger, more vibrant
community for the future. Let us all commit to taking action and making a difference in the lives of our
young people, today and for generations to come.

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