An NGO, Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), has urged government at all levels to equip children with entrepreneurial skills for them to meet up with global best practices.
President of the NGO, Mr Adaramola Emmanuel said this in a statement on Wednesday, in Abuja.
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He said that the call was to commemorate the 2020 International day of the African child theme: “Access to a child-friendly justice system in Africa.
NAN reports that the international day of the African child celebrated on June 16 of every year, is set to honour those who were either killed or participated in the Soweto uprising of 1976.
It was also set up to encourage the children to march for their right to education.
According to Emmanuel, the endowment of entrepreneurial skills on the children will make them to be relevant and meet the yearnings of their future aside acquiring certificates and white collar jobs.
“Today as we commemorate the 2020 day of the African Child amidst the COVID- 19, we remember that at least 90 per cent of learners which is majorly children and youths around the world have stayed out of school for more than eight weeks.
“The global scourge has given rise to child labour, sexual exploitation and as the number of deaths increase, more children will be orphaned and vulnerable.
“It is disheartening that in the midst of these uncertainties, Nigeria government slashed the budget for education and basic health in favour of the refurbishment of senate building, despite having more than 10 million out of school children.
Emmanuel, however, called on the government to have a quick rethink and double its effort in the education of the upcoming generation and also equipped the children to be entrepreneurs that could compete in the international space.
The president also enjoined the government to reconsider its priorities and pay attention to the issues of justice for children who have been molested or raped and facing derogatory situations.
He also called on all irrespective of status, religious or political affiliation to support the children and build the next generation of patriots who would believe in the national togetherness and not in stealing the nation wealth.
“Let us promote the Africa values, norms and traditions which encourage integrity, hard work, patriotism and commitment both to each other and our nation and not enslave some children because they are less privileged.
“Let us all teach our male children to use their strength to protect the girl-child and not to attack or oppress them in the name of rape, sexual abuse, bully and domestic violence,” he said. (NAN)