The World Bank has identified Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program as a critical component in the country’s drive towards industrialization. Dr. Ndiame Diop, World Bank Country Director in Nigeria, made this assertion during an interview with Arise TV on the sidelines of the World Bank and IMF meetings in Washington DC.
Diop emphasized the importance of skills development for economic growth, highlighting areas requiring immediate attention:
1. Basic education quality improvement
2. Reducing the number of out-of-school children (estimated 15-17 million)
3. Addressing stunted growth among children under five (11 million)
He praised the NYSC program, suggesting it could provide essential skills to 300,000-400,000 graduates annually. The World Bank is exploring ways to support this initiative.
Additionally, Diop mentioned the World Bank’s project aimed at empowering girls in technology, focusing on digital skills and STEM education.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s economic reforms, Diop noted the high social costs, including inflation, and emphasized supporting vulnerable populations.
Nigeria’s Path Forward:
- Leverage NYSC for skills development
- Improve education and nutrition
- Empower girls in technology
- Address social costs of economic reforms
The World Bank’s endorsement of NYSC underscores the program’s potential to drive Nigeria’s industrialization and economic growth.
Source: Vanguard
