CSO to partner with Clement Isong Foundation

Ini Billie, Uyo

Civil Society Organisation, Clement Isong Foundation has said it is ready to partner with the Akwa Ibom State Government in youth development.

Executive Director, Clement Isong Foundation, Elkanah Oluyori, on Wednesday in Uyo, commended the decision of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno to unbundle the Ministry of Youths and Sports, by creating a ministry solely focused on youth empowerment.

Oluyori said the move would pave the way for the closer collaboration with civil society organisations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders interested in addressing the unique challenges youths face.

He explained that the decision would impact the Foundation’s engagement with the Youth Development Cluster (YDC), especially in skill development, entrepreneurship, leadership training, and job creation.

“We applaud Governor Eno for his visionary leadership and urge him to continue on this good path and translate this acknowledgement into concrete action for the betterment of our young people.

“The Clement Isong Foundation has been actively engaged with the Youth Development Cluster (YDC), a coalition of civil society organizations focused on youth empowerment programs.

“Our ongoing collaborative efforts have yielded positive results, but the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Youth Development would significantly amplify our impact.

“We eagerly anticipate partnering with the prospective Ministry of Youth Development to support and implement to implement comprehensive initiatives addressing issues like skill development, entrepreneurship, leadership training, and job creation for young people across Akwa Ibom,” he stated.

Also speaking, Project Manager of the Foundation, Caroline Gordian, said the decision of Governor Eno shows his understanding of the diverse needs of the youths and creates the opportunity to streamline programmes that would be beneficial and help the youths reach their potential.

“We commend Governor Eno’s profound understanding of the diverse needs of our youth and his recognition of the need for a dedicated ministry to address these needs effectively.

“This acknowledgement presents an exciting opportunity to streamline efforts, implement targeted programs, and ultimately unleash the full potential of our youth population.

“By dedicating a separate ministry to focus solely on youth development, the Governor has demonstrated a commitment to fostering greater collaboration with civil society organizations like ours that are deeply invested in youth empowerment,” she stated.