Imo State Legislature Mandates Skill Acquisition in Schools to Combat Unemployment
Imo State House of Assembly passes bill championed by Gilbert Nwosu, requiring skill acquisition and craftsmanship education from primary to tertiary level, aiming to reduce reliance on white-collar jobs and tackle unemployment.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a significant move aimed at addressing unemployment and fostering practical skills among students, the Imo State House of Assembly has passed a landmark bill. The bill, championed by Mr. Gilbert Nwosu, member representing the Oguta state constituency, received unanimous approval during the plenary session held on Tuesday.
Under the provisions of the bill, skill acquisition and craftsmanship will become mandatory subjects in primary and secondary schools across the state. Furthermore, tertiary institutions within Imo State will be obligated to establish facilities and programs dedicated to skill development.
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The legislative process began with the bill's second reading, which took place on Thursday, January 31, 2024, following confirmation by the standing House Committee on Education.
Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, the Speaker of the House and representative of the Ihitte-Uboma state constituency, praised Nwosu for his active involvement in advocating for the bill. Olemgbe emphasized the Assembly's commitment to prioritizing initiatives that positively impact citizens and contribute to the state's overall development.
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In a statement to House of Assembly correspondents, Nwosu elucidated that the bill aims to mitigate the prevalent reliance on white-collar jobs among school leavers, attributing high unemployment rates to the lack of practical skills among graduates.
"The unemployment rate in the country is as a result of much reliance on the government to provide jobs for school leavers when there is no job out there," said Olemgbe. "Graduates suffer due to lack of skill, and that’s why you see youths roaming about the street. However, with this bill at work, the narratives would be changed."
Following its passage, Olemgbe directed the clerk to transmit the bill to the state governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his assent.
This progressive step by the Imo State House of Assembly underscores a commitment to equipping the future workforce with practical skills essential for sustainable livelihoods, thereby contributing to economic empowerment and societal development.
