Advocates seek support for youth development centres

YOUTH development advocates have called on both government and corporate organisations to give the much needed financial support to youth development centres to enable them sustain various human capacity building programmes aimed at developing the potential of youths towards the economic growth of the country.

The advice was given when advocates converged on Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital for the launch and inauguration of Accurate-Creative Minds Foundation (ACMF) Development Centre.

The guest speaker at the event and Orunto of Owu-Abeokuta, Chief Abiodun Lasile, noted that such moral and financial support would allow youth development organisations or centres to be more active in their responsibility of developing human capacity of youths in the society and turn them away from vices capable of destroying their future.

Speaking on the theme of the event, ‘Role of Youths Development Centres in the Economic Advancement of the Nation’, he stressed the need for such centres to be well equipped with books that would prepare youths for leadership roles.

Speaking in the same vein, General Manager of Olusegun Obasanjo Library, Youth Development Centre/Cinema, Elizabeth Amodu, described youth development centres as crucial to the advancement of any country, because of their continuous investment in the lives of youths.

According to her, “governments and international organisations, private sector and civil society organisations are increasingly introducing initiatives that harness the transformative

energy of youth through social entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Explaining ACMF’s mission, the founder, Mr Babatunde Odedele, maintained that the organisation was committed to changing the narrative that education is a scam, adding that the hub will help nurture potential of young people.

“This ACMF Development Centre stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering the growth of our youth, providing them with a space and opportunity to learn, unlearn, relearn, innovate, and excel. As we embark on this exciting endeavour, let us remember that education is not just about acquiring information but about inspiring curiosity, instilling resilience, and nurturing creativity.

“Through ACMF Development Centre, we aim to create an environment that encourages exploration, critical thinking, and the development of practical skills that will serve our youth in building a brighter future,” he said.

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