Keynote Speech by Rafiu Akinpelu Olaore, Founder and Executive Director of Youths Enterprise Development and Innovation Society (YEDIS) at the Entrepreneurship Workshop in the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Ogbomoso, Nigeria (FEDPA) on October 6, 2025.
Topic: Enhancing Youth Leadership and Skills Development in Africa for Meaningful Employment, Peace, and Prosperity
Esteemed Rector, Respected Members of Top Management, Distinguished Staff, Directors, Wonderful Students, and valued YEDIS members,
It’s a true privilege to stand before you today to deliver this keynote speech and to celebrate the partnership between our organisation, Youths Enterprise Development and Innovation Society (YEDIS), and the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Ogbomoso, Nigeria (FEDPA), starting in 2024. Together, we embark on a journey to elevate both institutions and foster remarkable changes for our youth.
The Path to a Sustainable Future:
In our quest for a sustainable future, young people must take the initiative and engage deeply in leadership and entrepreneurial efforts, especially within vulnerable communities. When prioritising meaningful employment opportunities for underserved youth, we unlock the potential for economic growth, peace, and prosperity within our nations. Today’s workshop will delve into the global challenges our youth face—identifying barriers, comparing analytical frameworks, and proposing bold, innovative solutions to the pressing issues of leadership and the growing youth unemployment rates.
The Power of Leadership and Entrepreneurship:
Developing leadership skills is about more than just personal growth; it enhances managerial capabilities, fosters meaningful interpersonal relationships, and builds social capital. It equips young leaders to respond creatively to emerging challenges. Entrepreneurship education is a robust foundation, encouraging innovative thinking, technological advancements, and skill acquisition, all of which are critical for tapping into new opportunities. Investing in our youth through focused education on leadership and entrepreneurship lays the groundwork for inclusive and sustainable societies.
Engagement in volunteer activities, participation in social clubs, and taking on leadership roles amplify these skills. They foster the competencies needed for successful business operations and community development, creating a ripple effect that can transform our society.
Collaborative Action:
Our mission at YEDIS is strengthened by our collaboration with dedicated organisations, volunteers, and professionals from various sectors, such as academia, private organisations, NGOs, youth groups, and community leaders. This workshop aims to significantly impact entrepreneurship education policy while championing an inclusive and sustainable digital future. We will spotlight the opportunities and challenges facing our youth in leadership training and skills development, empowering them to harness their managerial and technological potential.
Expect hands-on learning experiences from our skilled facilitators and interactive breakout sessions designed for engagement and dialogue. Your perspectives, questions, and feedback are not only welcomed but essential to the success of this workshop.
Thank you for your attention.
About YEDIS
The "Youths Enterprise Development and Innovation Society (YEDIS)" is a dynamic, grassroots NGO making waves in Nigeria! With Special Consultative Status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2025, YEDIS aims to empower young people through rural entrepreneurship and digital innovation. Our goal? To create exciting job opportunities, promote gender inclusivity, and drive sustainable community development.
At YEDIS, we understand the immense potential of the youth. We introduce them to entrepreneurship, spark innovative ideas, and inspire underserved young people to chase their dreams while equipping them with essential business skills. By collaborating with key stakeholders, we harness the power of partnerships to elevate local business initiatives. Our programs offer comprehensive entrepreneurship education, digital literacy training, mentoring, and capacity-building tailored to combat poverty, achieve zero hunger, ensure quality education, promote gender equality, and foster economic growth.
We engage with academic institutions, private organisations, community leaders, trade associations, student unions, and youth clubs to maximise our efforts. Together, we advocate for essential causes like food security, the transformation of food systems, disaster risk reduction, climate change action, and environmental protection.
YEDIS is committed to nurturing a holistic and inclusive approach that paves the way for resilient, sustainable, peaceful, and healthy cities. Join us in this transformative journey to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators!
Website: https://yedis.org
Email: [email protected]
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