By Chinazaekpere Chinwendu,
Abia State, Nigeria |July 15, 2025 —
Abia-born entrepreneur and philanthropist, Akym Onyekwere, has urged young people across Abia State and Nigeria at large to prioritize skill acquisition as a key to unlocking their future potential.
In a statement commemorating World Youth Skills Day 2025, Onyekwere Akym challenged youths to take charge of their destinies by developing practical skills that align with current economic and technological demands.
“The future will not wait for those who are unprepared. If you want to secure your place in tomorrow’s world, you must invest in skills today,” Onyekwere declared.
“Skills acquisition is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. It is the bridge between dreams and actual impact.”
He emphasized that the growing demand for skilled workers, both locally and globally, has opened vast opportunities for enterprising youths.
OAU, known for his advocacy in youth development, noted that many young people remain unemployed not due to a lack of intelligence, but a lack of relevant, practical skills.
“Our economy is changing rapidly. The industries hiring today are looking for people who can do things, not just those who can talk about doing things,” he said.
“That’s why I tell every Abia youth: go out, learn a skill, master it, and turn it into a tool for survival and success.”
While commending efforts made by the Abia State Government to improve education and youth engagement, he called for more structured programs focused on vocational and digital upskilling.
“We need public-private partnerships to establish skill hubs in every local government area. If you give young people the right tools and training, they will not only survive, they will build businesses, create jobs, and drive innovation,” Onyekwere emphasized.
He also encouraged parents and guardians to support their children in pursuing non-traditional career paths that are skill-based and aligned with the digital age.
“University degrees are great, but they should not be the only goal. Every child should be encouraged to learn a practical skill, coding, fashion design, welding, photography, carpentry, data science, or even animation. These are the currencies of the modern world,” he advised.
In a closing message to the youths, Onyekwere reminded them that they are the architects of their future.
“No one will hand you the life you want. You must build it, and skill is the material you need. You are capable, creative, and full of potential. Don't waste time waiting for opportunities, go and create them,” he concluded.
World Youth Skills Day is observed annually on July 15, to highlight the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.
0 Comments