By Amos Tauna
Communities in Zangon Kataf local government area of Kaduna State have applauded efforts of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), in sensitizing youths for better future.
The communities including Fadan Kamanton, Zonzon, Kamuru-Ikulu and Ramai-Zonkwa, all in southern Kaduna, observed that with the sensitisation on girl-child education, early marriage and economic empowerment, the youths are better equipped to make good use of their potentials towards a better standard of living.
In various presentations of their activities since the commencement of Collective Action for Adolescent Girls Initiative (CAACI) last year, there had been turn-around, where most drop outs had to returned to school to further their education.
It also showed a reduction of social vices being practiced mostly amount the youths of the affected communities.
The report shows a reduction in early marriage amongst young boys and girls, stressing that most of them as a result of the awareness, have embraced skills acquisition programmes like tailoring, carpentry, amongst others in order to earn a living.
Speaking after the presentations, CAACI project officer, Linda Sidi Umar, expressed delight with the commitment shown by the youths and enjoined them not to relent in the training they have received for a better tomorrow.
She enjoined them to introduce the various programmes they have trained in and pass the message to others for the realization of the yearnings and aspirations of CAACI in the local government.
Linda Sidi Umar stressed the need for the girls to shun the company of bad friends so that what they have learnt would not be a waste but a stepping stone for greater heights in future endeavours.
She thanked religious and traditional rulers for embracing the programme and appealed to them not to relent in ensuring there was total change in the lives of the youths especially the girls so that they will be deceived into early marriage.
Some elders who attended the programme commended the efforts of CAACI for changing the way of life of most youths in the four communities while appealing to other NGOs to take a cue from CAACI, for sustainability and reduction of the rate of social vices among the youths.
They appealed to the state government to always engage the youths in meaningful projects that would take their attention away from evil practices that are inimical to their progress.
They lamented lack of social amenities that could help involve the youths in what they have learnt in their various trainings.
