Problem Statement

Unemployment and underemployment remain significant challenges in rural and underserved communities across Africa. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), Africa has one of the highest youth unemployment rates, with over 60% of its unemployed population being young people. In Nigeria alone, over 33% of youths were unemployed as of 2021 (National Bureau of Statistics). Many individuals lack access to skill-based training that can enable them to become self-sufficient and contribute to their communities’ economic growth. Traditional academic routes are not always accessible or sufficient for immediate employment, leaving many individuals without viable opportunities to earn a living.

Before Africarii’s intervention, the available skill training programs were either too expensive, inconsistent, or lacked the necessary mentorship to ensure participants could effectively apply their skills. Many government-led initiatives faced issues such as poor implementation, lack of follow-up, and inadequate resources to scale their impact.

Africarii’s Plan and Approach

Recognizing the need for a sustainable solution, Africarii established the Free Skill Acquisition Program as a structured initiative to provide practical, hands-on training in various vocational and digital skills. The program aims to:

• Equip youth and women with high-demand skills.
  
  
• Foster entrepreneurship and economic independence.
  
  
• Provide mentorship and continuous learning opportunities.
  
  
• Ensure participants have access to tools and resources to practice their skills.
  
  

Approach:

1. Needs Assessment: We conducted surveys and community engagements to identify the most relevant skills needed.
   
   
2. Partnerships & Resource Mobilization: Africarii partnered with local businesses, professionals, and organizations to provide high-quality training.
   
   
3. Hands-on Training Sessions: Sessions are structured with expert-led workshops and practical applications.
   
   

Progress Report

2022: Women & Youth Empowerment Focus

• 3 days of special training cohort targeting women and youth in rural areas.
  
  
• Reached 35 beneficiaries.
  
  
• Training covered Tye and Dye and Resin Jewellery
  
  
• Key Partner: Women and Youths Arts Foundation
  
  

2023: Strengthening Digital Skills & Business Development (tge sluseshiw isnt working)

• 1 week of training focused on basic digital skills training and small business management.
  
  
• Training also covered Soap-making, Bead-making and Adire making.
  
  
• 105 participants trained.
  
  
• Key Partners: Women and Youths Arts Foundation, Master Art Classes
  

  Results So Far

  • 140 individuals trained across various skill sets.
    
    
  • 75% of graduates have started their own businesses or secured employment.
    
    
  • 40% increase in women-led enterprises in communities we serve.
    
    

  Through the Free Skill Acquisition Program, Africarii has made significant strides in empowering individuals with the tools needed to thrive economically and socially. The success of this initiative is a testament to the power of grassroots-driven change and strategic partnerships.