Advocacy of AI skills acquisition a panacea for youth unemployment in South-South Nigeria

Abstract

Advocating AI Skills Acquisition as a Solution for Youth Unemployment in Nigeria’s South-South Region” investigates the feasibility of incorporating AI skills education to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment. This study explores youth awareness, interest, and willingness to engage in AI skill acquisition using a mixed-methods approach that includes surveys with unique features such as AI mentor circles and micro-credential programs. The findings show a strong interest in AI education, notably through micro-credential courses and AI mentorship networks. These novel ideas provide interesting opportunities for increasing employment and encouraging entrepreneurship. The study emphasizes the necessity of synchronizing policies and educational initiatives to harness the power of AI in reducing young unemployment and supporting long-term economic growth in the South-South region of Nigeria.