ENGAGEMENT OF YOUTHS IN PUBLIC WORKS

PROPOSAL FOR ENGAGEMENT OF YOUTHS IN PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES UNDER THE SOCIAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME IN ZURMI LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Introduction

Youth unemployment, poverty, and limited access to economic opportunities are among the major drivers that pushed the citizens of Zurmi Local Government into hardship and difficulties in maintaining a sustainable livelihood. The current socio-economic challenges have made it critical to create inclusive interventions that empower youths, enhance local infrastructure, and promote community development. The initiative will improve the socio-economic status of youths in Zurmi LGA through short-term employment in public works, contributing to both poverty reduction and community development.

This proposal presents a viable, impactful approach to youth engagement and social protection in Zurmi LGA. By investing in the productivity and dignity of young people, the Local Government will reduce poverty, enhance community resilience, and promote peace and development.

Rationale

The Social Protection Programme is designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting sustainable livelihoods and providing support to disadvantaged groups. In alignment with this goal, this initiative aims to engage youths in labour-intensive public work projects such as clearing possible hideouts on the major roads of Zurmi LGA to save lives and properties of the people. This activity not only provides temporary employment but also enhances a culture of civic responsibility and social cohesion.

Objectives

• To provide temporary income opportunities to 60 unemployed youths.

• To improve security on the Zurmi LGA major roads.

• To enhance the capacity of youths for future employability or entrepreneurship.

 Target Beneficiaries

• Direct Beneficiaries: 60 unemployed youths (aged 18–35) from all wards of Zurmi LGA.

• Indirect Beneficiaries: Zurmi LGA citizens and other commuters utilizing the roads.

Implementation Strategy

The activity will be implemented in collaboration with locals, traditional leaders, ward heads, youth associations, and community-based organizations to ensure transparency and local ownership. Youths will be selected through an open and participatory process.

Steps:

1. Stakeholder engagement

2. Youth registration and vetting

3. Orientation and work distribution

4. Deployment and supervision

5. Weekly performance reviews

6. Final evaluation and exit strategy

Budget Estimate

54tg

9. Sustainability Plan

• Linkages with vocational training and business support programs

• Encouragement of community ownership of completed works

• Referrals to other government initiatives

• Potential for repeat engagement or upscaling in subsequent years