By Frank Bray
It appears that the government has the youth in mind in its economic agenda as it has launched various support programs in their interest. It began with the Hustler Fund, creative economy hustles, and now the notable Nyota Fund. Although yet to be seen and confirmed, it has been brought to attention that the government is trying to make steps with the youth in mind.
Many youth are now awaiting the realisation of the promises the notable Nyota Fund has presented to as many as were able to apply. It is, however, sad to realize that some think it has come at a time when trust between the government and youth is wanting.
A number of youth have been left out for defaulting on the hustler fund payment, and it’s an honest predicament.
One youth said that they had to pay the Hustler Fund first in order to apply for the Nyota Fund. However, worthwhile questions still arise. Why did a good number of youth initially default on the Hustler Fund? Interacting with different youth has revealed that the reasons vary depending on the circumstances.
Some have hinted that it’s their money they are being loaned, so they see no incentive to repay. Others face poverty and unemployment, making it a sacrifice to pay back the fund. In other instances, some just don’t see it as a serious obligation. Yet others feel that five hundred shillings wasn’t enough to even scratch their needs, so they just took it and spent it on something other than a profitable investment.
However, many think that for a system to work, it has to be able to replenish itself and allow for circulation. Refusing to pay back the money hinders circulation and, hence, potentially the programs intended for the youth.. If such a program were to work, we’d need to change how our youth view things. We’d need to teach to establish trust, both by reeducation and by example.
There is also a need to alleviate poverty and unemployment. Most youth either have no jobs or income, and others live hand to mouth, leaving little to no chance for repayment. As earlier stated, deciding to pay feels to some like a sacrifice hard to make and easy to push forward.
As it stands, we need to realize that there is a gap among the young people who have been under the 8-4-4 era. They weren’t taught economics of money management and survival enough. That’s a gap that needs bridging. The youth need more forums on practical and viable economic solutions and re-education on survival and thriving.
Also, it would be good for the government to begin youth mentorship programs that are fully funded for the sake of the 8-4-4 batch that never got to be employed. It is highly recognizable that it’s a talent and gift-oriented batch forced into intellectual performance.
We need programs that both equip them with skills and practically start them off in their respective career paths. Programs that not only offer theoretical knowledge but also practical access to tools and capital. A six-month program per batch in fields of choice could be a satisfying start.
It is great that we’re thinking about the youth. But let’s keep thinking right. They’re not enemies. They’re the people. The future. And they have been cheated and left lost. They are the reason this land exists. The reason it should flourish.
