By Laolu Elijah, Ibadan

The Chief Executive Officer of CherithPoint Education and Youth Development Initiative (CEYDI), Dr Olajumoke Akere, has advised the Federal Government to subsidize internship programmes to reduce the country’s unemployment rate.

She said government and private organisations should try as much as possible to prioritise and support graduate internships to address the employability gap and boost economic development.

Akere called during the organisation’s recently concluded virtual digital programme, designed to equip young graduates and aspiring professionals with essential digital marketing skills and career readiness.

She emphasised the critical role governments can play in fostering structured internship opportunities, which she described as vital for bridging the gap between education and employment.

“Governments can establish subsidised internship programs by partnering with organisations to co-fund initiatives, ensuring financial sustainability for businesses while providing fair compensation for interns,” Akere said.

Akere stressed that investing in youth not only addresses unemployment but also builds a globally competitive workforce capable of driving innovation and shaping the future of the nation’s economy.

She further encouraged private organisations to play an active role in reducing the employability gap by collaborating with educational institutions and initiatives like CEYDI to identify and nurture talent.

“Private organisations should invest in mentorship programs that pair interns with seasoned professionals to provide both technical skills and career guidance,” Akere noted.

She also called for initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion by supporting interns from underrepresented communities and providing resources for sustainable workforce growth.

During the event, Mrs. Olajumoke Akere also addressed “Impostor Syndrome Faced by New Employees and Career Starters,” equipping attendees with strategies to overcome self-doubt and thrive professionally.

 Her talk provided practical insights and motivational tools to help participants confidently navigate their early career journeys.

Akere concluded by calling on governments, corporate bodies, and other stakeholders to take decisive action in supporting structured graduate internships, which she said were essential for unlocking the economic and creative potential of the nation’s youth.

The virtual digital programme also featured other insightful sessions, including a keynote address by Dr. Oluseye Ojo, Director of Zachsam Consulting USA, who spoke on “Working with Global Teams.”

Dr. Ojo shared strategies for excelling in multicultural work environments and navigating cross-border collaborations.

A highlight of the event was the Digital Marketing Challenge, where interns showcased their creativity and strategic thinking while winners were recognised with awards for their outstanding performance, underscoring the transformative impact of structured training and mentorship.

The program brought together accomplished speakers, dedicated interns, and innovative activities that demonstrated the vast potential of youth in the digital era.