By Ibukun Emiola
Young Nigerians have been urged to embrace technology, global education and international collaborations to remain competitive and unlock career opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.
The advice was given in Ibadan on Wednesday at the Unlock Youth Impact Experience, organised by The Nucleus Global in partnership with JSAY Prevarsity.
The programme has as its theme: “Discover. Grow. Lead. Impact: Discovering Your Future in a Changing World.”
Speaking at the event, Founder of JSAY Prevarsity and Convener of The Nucleus Global, Mrs Olajumoke Akere, encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity to develop future-ready skills, build meaningful connections and discover their potential.
“The programme was designed to expose young people to practical knowledge that would prepare them for leadership, education, careers and life.
“Participants are expected to engage in transformational learning sessions, ask questions, collaborate and develop innovative ideas capable of shaping their future,” Akere said.
She identified barriers to harnessing opportunities as limited knowledge, urging youths to research opportunities and be resilient, so as to be globally relevant and competitive.
The educationist urged young people to cultivate a global mindset, stressing that the world has become increasingly interconnected through technology and digitalisation.
Akere also called on the government to improve educational infrastructure and create policies that would provide more opportunities for young people to thrive.
According to her, better support for education, research and skills development will reduce the urge among many youths to seek opportunities outside the country.
“There are numerous scholarships and opportunities available, but many people fail to access them because they are unwilling to conduct proper research, meet application requirements and adhere to deadlines,” Akere said.
Also speaking, Miss Omotara Akere, her daughter and an education enthusiast, said that digital technology had removed geographical barriers.
She said that this has made it possible for young people to study, collaborate and even work with organisations across the world without relocating.
Omotara said young people must intentionally seek opportunities beyond their immediate environment, including scholarships, international education, internships and collaborations.
“The world is now a global village. It is not just about travelling abroad but also about expanding your learning, relationships, networking, and contributions to the global community.
In his keynote address, a Cleric, Pastor Sylvester Orelu, urged participants to discover their purpose and identity.
According to him, lasting success is rooted in understanding one’s potential rather than pursuing material wealth alone.
He said that many young people were limited by a lack of awareness of their abilities and encouraged them to seek knowledge, personal development, and a deeper understanding of their purpose.
Orelu said that true success comes from fulfilling one’s purpose and making meaningful contributions to society.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured breakout sessions on Artificial Intelligence and digital skills, career discovery, talent showcase, public speaking and global education.
The programme attracted teenagers, students and young creatives from different backgrounds.
