LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (LIFYEAD)

Press Release: Apointment of Representatives of LIFYEAD, Africa

2013-11-28T23:09:00.001-08:00

CURRENT STAFF OFLIFYEAD, AFRICA

ADVISORS

1) Patron/Board Chairman - Prof. P.N.C. Ngwu

2) Senior Special Adviser (SSA) - Prof. E. J. Otagburuagu

3) SA on Community Development - Dr. Nwakaire N. Onuzurike

4) SA on Good Governance - Hon. Nwodo Kenneth C.

5) Special Adviser on HIV/AIDS - Dr. Mrs. V. C. Chibuko

6) SA on Entrepreneurship Development- Dr. Goodhead Uchendu

7) SA on Gender Issues and Equality - Ambassador Chika Henry

8) Monitoring and Evaluation Officer - Dr. Nwankwo Benedict C.

9) SA on Partnership/Affiliations - Prof. P. U. Nwangwu

CHIEF DR. MRS. MABEL A. O.OBI

Associate Professor

Regional Director, Africa

LIFYEAD

AFRICAN REGIONAL COORIDNATORS

Regional Coordinator (East Africa)

Ssebuliba Naluswa Wilson.

Address: Kitintale Zone 12, Mutungo Parish,

Nakawa Division, Kampala, Ugandan.

Country: Ugandan

Regional Coordinator (South-Africa)

Mohammad Mostafijur Rahman

167/5, Rosulbag, Azimpur, Dhaka-1205,

Country: Bangladesh

Regional Coordinator (West-Africa)

Engr. Innocent, Ogu

6,132 Rd, Team I, Opp. NNPC Filling Station,

Gwarimpa, Abuja, FCT

Country: Nigeria

Regional Coordinator (North Africa)

Vacancy

Regional Coordinator (Central Africa)

Vacancy

COUNTRY DIRECTORS

MARIAM O.CHUKWUEMEKA

(Country Director, Nigeria)

Address: Prince and Princess Estate, Phase 1,

Close 1, House 1. Apo. Abuja

Tel: +234(0)8035958562

Email: mchukwuemeka@gmail.com

AMINATA SIAHOUE

(Country Director, Cote d’Ivoire)

01 BP 2554 ABIDJAN 01

Tel: 00225 01 08 99 95

Email: siahoueamy@yahoo.fr

LINUS ONYANGO OMONDI

(Country Director, Kenya)

Address: P.O. BOX: 14479-00800, Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 720 803 531

Email: linus_mk@yahoo.com

KAWSU SILLAH

(Country Director, Gambia)

Address: Basse Santa Su,

Fulladu East District, Upper River Region.

Tel: +2209865300

E-mail: sillahkawsu@yahoo.com

REGIONAL COORDINATORS (NIGERIA)

ALIKALI MOSES (NORTH-CENTRAL REGION)

Address: Plot 133, 2/1 new sites, Federal housing

Kubwa, Abuja.

Email: mosesalikali@gmail.com

Tel: +2347069023745

(VACANCIES: Kwara and Nassarawa)

AKIN-WILLIAMS AKINBOWALE DAVID (SOUTH-WEST REGION)

Address: House 5 Living rock street, Mupinlola Estate,

off Iyesi Road. Ota, Ogun State.

Email: davakinwilliams@gmail.com

Tel: +2348028394055

(VACANCIES: Ogun, Lagos, Ondo and Osun State)

JOHN NNAMDI ESEME (SOUTH-SOUTH REGION)

Address: 50 Church Road, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state

Postal Address: Flat 39, Site 5, Sultan Dasuki Way,

Opposite Anglican Church, 2/2, Kubwa, Abuja

Tel: 07030811246

E-mail: nnamdieseme@live.com

(VACANCIES: Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers and Delta State)

CHIMA RAYMOND ONWUKA UKWA (SOUTH-EAST REGION)

Address: 11 Hospital Road Amaekpu Ohafia, Abia State Nigeria

Tel: 08132555787

E-mail: apex4all2@yahoo.com

VACANCY - Ebonyi, Imo, Abia State

(NORTH-EAST REGION)

VACANCY - Taraba, Borno, Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe and Yobe State

(NORTH WEST REGION)

VACANCY - Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Jigawa and Katsina State

STATE COORDINATORS (NIGERIA)

MARCUS EDIBOGI AKOR (BENUE STATE)

Address: Behind Grace of God Mission, Off. St. Jude’s Parish, Zone HB,

P.O. Box 1520, Otukpo, Benue State.

Tel: +2347038691281, +2348053849232

Email: marcusakor@yahoo.com

OKOH BENJAMIN CHIGOZIE (FCT STATE)

Address: 12 Dan Suleiman Street, Utako Abuja.

Tel: 08038899595

Email: Princeben4God@yahoo.com

OLAGOKE-ADARAMOYE DARE (OYO STATE)

Address: 42, Odejayi Street, beside Loyola College,

Ibadan, Oyo State

Email: dareadaramoye@yahoo.com

Tel: 08167172968

OKAFOR CHIDUMEJE CHUKWUEBUKA (ANAMBRA STATE)

Address: 5 Orogbu Street

Harmony Specialist Hospital

Box 963, Awka

Anambra State

Tel: 07037479586

Email: dumeje@yahoo.com

PRINCE ISRAEL OREKHA (EDO STATE)

Address: 13 Saint Jude Street, Off Luckyway

Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Email: princeisraelorekha@ymail.com

Tel: +2348064871447.

MADAKI AZI ISTIFANUS (PLATEAU STATE)

Address: 24 Ago-Ijaye Street,

Isheri Development Area,

Lagos State,Nigeria.

E-mail: azimadakijnr@gmail.com

Tel: 07032469667

NGENE CHARLES CHUKWUKA (ENUGU STATE)

Address: 5 Ebeagu, Okpu-Okpanku,

Aninri L.G.A. Enugu State

Tel: 08067933984

Email: ngenecharles@ymail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS OF LIFYEAD

1) Director of Finance - Nduguba Chinedu

2) Director of Information and Media - Asogwa Hillary Chika

3) Director of Project - Akpa Theophilus

4) Director of Welfare and Mobilization - Eze Victor C.

5) Director of Programmes and Events - Oluwa Dare

6) Director of Membership - Miss Grace okpe

7) Director of ICT/Training - Hon. Prince George Ehizonaga

8) Director of Skill Dev. And Training - Miss Edith C. Heights

9) Team Leader - Samuel Oko

10) Deputy Team Leader - Ezugwu Maureen

11) Office Assistant/Administration - Ms. Kalu Justice I.

Announcer:

ENGR. UGWUJA CHUKWUDI

Media Secretary to the Executive Director

Press Release: The Sri Lankan government wanted the meeting to be a triumph but it quickly turned into a PR disaster as the country's dreadful human rights record became the only story in town.

2013-11-28T23:08:00.000-08:00

The Sri Lankan government wanted the meeting to be a triumph but it quickly turned into a PR disaster as the country's dreadful human rights record became the only story in town.
Dear Activist,
We made a BIG impact at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka last week!
"Does anyone specifically have a question that's not on Sri Lanka or human rights?"
This was how an exasperated Commonwealth spokesperson unwittingly summed up CHOGM at a press conference in Sri Lanka last weekend.
The meeting, held in Colombo, was the subject of heated media debate, fueled largely by Amnesty supporters like you, calling on government leaders to strip Sri Lanka of the Commonwealth's chairmanship. The campaign - which mobilized nearly 250,000 Amnesty supporters by email and social media around the world - exposed Sri Lanka's appalling human rights record and put pressure on governments around the world to take action.
The Sri Lankan government wanted the meeting to be a triumph but it quickly turned into a PR disaster as the country's dreadful human rights record became the only story in town.
Even before the meeting started, government leaders from Canada, India and Mauritius (slated as CHOGM's next host) boycotted the meeting. Canada and Mauritius cited Sri Lanka's human rights record as the reason for their leaders' non-attendance. Others, like the UK's Prime Minister David Cameron, made it clear they would go but take a strong stand on human rights in Sri Lanka.
In the end, only 25 out of 53 heads of government attended - a historic low for CHOGM meetings.
Sri Lanka has been given the Chairmanship to the Commonwealth for the next two years, but thanks to Amnesty members around the world, Sri Lanka's human rights record will continue to be watched- not just by the body it leads, but by witnesses like you worldwide.
Thank you for your support.
Danny Vannucchi
Security with Human Rights Campaigner
PS Look out for an email next week on how you can support the world's biggest human rights event this December. Or read about Write for Rights now.

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APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF REGIONAL COORDINATORS/COUNTRY DIRECTORS

2013-09-24T20:50:00.002-07:00

LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (LIFYEAD)

APPLICATIONFOR THE POST OF REGIONAL COORDINATORS/COUNTRY DIRECTORS

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates voluntarily for recruitment as Regional Coordinators and Country Directors (Representatives) of the above named non-governmental organization in various countries in African Continent. Candidates on full-time employment are not eligible to apply but can apply as Member, Board of Directors. The available vacancies are indicated below:

Regional Coordinator, West African

Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia, Gambia. Zambia,

Regional Coordinator, Central African

Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Chad, Sudan, Congo, and Cameroon

Regional Coordinator, South Africa

Regional Coordinator, East African

Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda

Regional Coordinator, North African

Morocco, Mauritania, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt

GENERAL APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

i) Candidates must be a citizen of the selected countries listed above.

ii) Candidates must be a registered member of an organization in their country.

iii) Candidate must write a brief cover letter explaining reason for such interest to accompany with his/her CV and one digital passport photograph.

iv) Candidates must have a minimum of First Degree or in-view at least with 3 years of post experienced in local, national or international NGOs activities.

v) Candidates without degree but has a proven track records of concluded projects or activities in our respective areas of focus are also eligible to apply.

vi) Short listed candidates will be communicated through their emails.

vii) All applications/CV MUST be send as an attachment to our email at: lifeskillsinitiative@yahoo.com.

REFEREE REPORTS

Candidates should Forward at least 1 attach copy of his/her referee letter of recommendation and must be dully stamp and sign.

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION FORMS

All application must deliver or addressed and sent by courier or electronically to “The Executive Secretary, LIFYEAD, 94 Bonny Street, Umuahia – 4244001, Abia State, Nigeria”.

CLOSING DATE

Application starts from the date of this publication and closes on October 25, 2013.

** IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL APPLICANTS**

Check out for information on Selected Candidates via the LIFYEAD webs: http://www.lifyead.webs.com from November 15, 2013, for your further necessary action. While candidate’s profiles and pictures will be uploaded in our propose website.

IMO JUSTICE

Press Secretary to the Executive Director

LIFYEAD, Nigeria

What's Happening In Your Youth Development

2012-05-07T06:17:00.000-07:00

Youth Employment Initiative Launched in South Africa

Caterpillar Foundation and the International Youth Foundation  Join Forces to Improve Job Prospects

Johannesburg, South Africa - To address the challenges young people face in South Africa when entering the labor force or starting their own business, the International Youth Foundation (IYF) and the Caterpillar Foundation have launched EquipYouth, a program that will provide 720 local youth with a package of services that includes technical job and life skills training as well as post-training support. The program, which is gaining valuable corporate support from Barloworld Equipment South Africa (the local Cat® dealer), will be implemented through St. Anthony’s Education Centre, a South African organization established to address the educational and training needs of vulnerable youth and adults in the community.

Through EquipYouth, participants will receive 24 weeks of hands-on training focused on preparing them to acquire certification as electricians, welders, automotive mechanics, bookkeepers, and plumbers. Youth will also receive a life skills training component that includes such issues as workforce readiness, community engagement, and strategies to become self-sufficient. Upon graduation, trainees will register with the job and career counseling office at St. Anthony’s Education Centre where they will receive ongoing support in finding internships and employment opportunities.

"We are excited about the tremendous possibilities EquipYouth will create for these young people," said Caterpillar Corporate Public Affairs Director Jim Baumgartner. “Giving unemployed youth options for a sustainable employment future closely aligns with the Caterpillar Foundation focus on access to education. We are proud to support IYF in its efforts to reach young people with technical training and life skills." Terry Dearling, Executive Director, Human Resources at Barloworld Equipment, added: “As a leading South African company, Barloworld has a responsibility and a desire to help build our nation. That means helping its citizens to obtain the skills they need to become active in the economy – particularly those who simply don’t have the means or the support to achieve their dreams.”

The South Africa program is part of a global EquipYouth three-year partnership between IYF and the Caterpillar Foundation that will provide 8,000 young people in Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Russia, Singapore, and South Africa with market-relevant life and job skills training along with internships, on-the-job training and employment placement services.

4th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON YOUTH AND INTERFAITH DIALOGUE

2012-05-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

4th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON YOUTH AND INTERFAITH DIALOGUE

Welcome to the website of the 4^th Annual International Conference on Youth and Interfaith Dialogue. This year’s International Conference will be held at the ELIEL CENTER, Gold and Base, Jos, Nigeria, from 25-27 October 2012. The Conference will be hosted by New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation, in collaboration with The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, the United Religions Initiative, and the Jewish-Palestinian Living Room Dialogue Group.
The Conference brings together citizens, including representatives of CSOs and Faith-based Groups within Nigeria and around the world to promote and improve mutual respect between faiths and cultures and to support civil society and individuals who intend to reject violence and build our common future. Since its launch in October 2009, the annual International Conference on Youth and Interfaith Dialogue has introduced and supported actions expanding mutual perceptions among individuals of different religions, cultures, genders, and ethnicities.
The Conference will offer new tools of a successful Interreligious and Intercultural Model for Dialogue and Peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, and Strategy for overcoming the misunderstandings and stereotypes which affect relations between and within the societies. The women and men will provide recommendations to decision-makers, institutions and individuals for dignifying everyone and our shared values. In a safe space, the Conference will be a living model for creating prosperity, coexistence beyond war, and restoring friendships and trust. This year, we are newly partnering and working very closely with the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions and the Inter-Faith Action for Peace in Africa (IFAPA) to host a pre-parliament event to create awareness about the global interreligious movement and mobilize towards The Brussels, Belgium 2014 Parliament Event . New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation is an active NGO Participant of the United Nations Global Compact.

REGISTRATION AND PARTICIPATION

Everyone attending the conference is required to complete an official registration form. As space is limited, participants are strongly encouraged to register for the conference as soon as possible. Registration for the conference opens January 1, 2012 and closes October 15, 2012. There will be no extensions and Registrations sent in after this closing date will NOT be considered. All completed Registration Forms MUST be accompanied by the appropriate Registration Fees to be considered. Click to Download and Complete the 2012 INTERFAITH CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FEE

All registrants must pay the registration fee to be confirmed as a participant for the conference. The registration fee provides for a conference program, accommodation, entrance to all conference sessions, including workshops, entrance to the exhibition hall, daily tea break, and all official conference meals. The Conference Registration Fee for Nigerian and International Participants is stated below. Each participant is responsible for making and paying for their own travel to the conference.

Early Registration ((Jan. -July 2011)	Late Registration (After July –Oct.15)
Nigerian Participants - N9,000	N12, 000
International Participants - $300	$350

METHODS OF PAYMENT OF REGISTRATION FEES FOR NIGERIAN PARTICIPANTS

By Direct Bank Deposit for Nigerian Participants (In Nigerian Naira)

Participants based in Nigeria should pay their appropriate Registration Fees, using the following Bank Account Details:

Account Name: New Era Educational and Charitable Support Initiative

Account Number: 1012019497

Bank Name: Zenith International Bank Plc (ZENITH)

Jos II Branch, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

METHODS OF PAYMENT OF REGISTRATION FEES FOR INTERNATIONAL PARTICIPANTS

a. Payment of Registration Fees by Electronic Wire Transfer (In US Dollars)

Account Name: New Era Educational and Charitable Support Initiative

Account Number: 5070092919

Swift Code: ZEIBNGLA

Bank Name: Zenith International Bank (Jos II Branch)

Terminus, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

b. Online Payment, using Credit Card for International Participants (In US Dollars)

International Participants wishing to make Online Registration payments can do so at

SECURE AMMADO ONLINE REGISTRATION CENTER . Please, kindly note that all Bank and Credit Card charges will be borne by participants.

CONFIRMATION AND ACCOMODATION

Registered participants, who have fully paid the appropriate Registration Fees and completed the Online Registration Form, will receive a Customized Confirmation ID (CCID) by email and phone.

Conference Venue:

The October 2012 International Conference on Youth and Interfaith Communication will be held at the 250-capacity, air-conditioned, multi-purpose Conference Hall of the ELIEL CENTER, located at GOLD AND BASE, behind Nigeria Air force Base, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

The City of Jos:

Jos, the Capital City of Plateau State, Nigeria’s “Home of Peace and Tourism” was established in 1915, as a tin transportation camp. Its early history was closely linked to the prosperity of the mining industry. In 1967, Jos became the capital of the defunct Benue-Plateau State and was transformed into the capital city of Plateau State in 1975, thus becoming an important administrative and commercial center. With a population of over 1,000,000, Jos remains one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Nigeria today, with people of different religious and cultural backgrounds living together. It is adjudged the “Home of Peace” and the safest city to live in Nigeria.

Jos is situated almost at the geographical center of Nigeria and lies less than 300 km from Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital. Jos is linked by road, rail and air to the rest of the country. It has an equable climate with its average monthly temperatures ranging between 21⁰ and 25⁰ C, average humidity of 60%, and average rainfall of 1,400mm (56”). Other points of interest in Jos include an open–air museum of traditional architecture, and the Jos Museum, which displays artifacts of the Nok Culture. In the early 1900s Jos was built by the British at the site of the pre-existing village of Geash. Tin mining began in the area in about 1907, and developed rapidly following the completion of a railroad in 1914. Jos also grew as a resort town, attracting tourists to its cool climate.

Contact UsWe would love to hear from you! Just send us an email, phone call or fill in the form below and we'll try to get back to you as soon as possible.

CONFERENCE HOST AND SECRETARIAT

Emmanuel Ande Ivorgba, Ph.D, Msc.D

Executive Director,

New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation,

RABO HOUSE,

#1 Mazaram Road, Rayfield

P.0.B0X 6451,

Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Email: conference@needcsi.org, eivorgba@needcsi.org

Website: http://www.needcsi.org/

Tel: +234-8052627310, +234- 7098811356

CONTACT INFORMATION IN THE USA

Len and Libby Traubman,

Co-Founders

Jewish-Palestinian Living Room Dialogue Group, California, USA

Conference Facilitators and Co-Sponsors

Email: ltraubman@igc.org

Website: http://traubman.igc.org/dg-prog.htm

Bartholomew Shepkong,Research and Outreach Intern,

Council For a Parliament of the World's Religions
70 East Lake Street, Suit 205
Chicago, IL 60601
Ph. 312.629.2990 Fax 312.629.2991

Email: barth@parliamentofreligions.org

Website: http://www.parliamentofreligions.org/index.cfm

Call for Applications to form Working Committees!

2012-03-01T00:14:00.000-08:00

Today is the official launch of the call for applications to form part of the Working Committees of the Washington DC YouthForce. As you may know, The Washington DC YouthForce 2012 is a coalition of International and community based organizations: Advocates for Youth, CHOICE for Youth and Sexuality, dance4life, Espolea, Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS, LetsStopAIDS, MSMGF - YRG, Y+ Programme GNP+, Youth Coalition for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Youth Peer Education Network (Y-PEER) and Youth RISE. These organizations are working together to ensure that youth is meaningfully involved and represented at the XIX International AIDS Conference (IAC) AIDS 2012.

Committees
To realize its objectives and better represent the voices of all young people, the Washington DC YouthForce is seeking members to join the 4 different organizing committees:

- Pre-Conference
- Advocacy and Media
- Youth Pavilion and Reception
- Main Conference

Selection Process
The Washington DC YouthForce is co-chaired by members of youth organizations, civil society or networks and/or core partner organizations. Committee Co-Chairs will review applications and select the top 10 to 12 candidates for each committee.

Although efforts will be made to provide assistance to committee members to find funding to attend the Conference, we cannot guarantee funding and have no input into the IAS scholarship decision process. Committee Co-Chairs reserve the right to replace committee members who do not contribute according to the agreed upon work plan and timeline for delivery, after discussing the situation with them privately and in advance of taking any decisions.

Criteria
- Fluency in English absolutely necessary;
- Frequent Internet access;
- Ability to attend monthly teleconference calls from March 2012 to May 2012 and weekly calls from June 2012 onwards;
- Commitment to a rights-based approach (including evidence-based information and services, condoms, sexual and reproductive rights, harm reduction, etc.);
- Skills and/or organizational capacity that is relevant to the Committee you are applying for;
- Permission from the organization you work with to contribute your time (approx. 2-3 hours/ week) on a voluntary basis;

- Motivation, pro-activeness, flexibility, reliability and a good sense of humor!

- Young People Living with HIV and young people from key populations affected by HIV are strongly encouraged to apply and get involved in the Washington DC YouthForce.

How to apply?
1. Go to http://bit.ly/z3yqFV
2. Fill out the application
3. Upload your CV by clicking the “Upload” button. You will receive a confirmation message.

The deadline to submit the application form is the 12th of march 2012 .

Nigeria records 281,000 case of HIV annually – FG

2012-02-16T05:22:00.000-08:00

The Federal Government on Monday in Abuja, Nigeria expressed appreciation on the significant progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but declared that the country records 281,000 new infections yearly.
According to the Federal Government, only 400,000 persons living with the disease are receiving drugs out of the 3 million people currently affected. About 1.5 million people are required to be on life saving anti-retroviral drugs. The Director-General of the National Action Committee on AIDS, Prof. John Idoko, stated this at the zonal consultations on ownership for sustainable HIV response where he also attributed the irregular funding of NACA by donor agencies to global meltdown in the past three years.

He said, We have seen very significant progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Nigeria more than 25 per cent HIV decline between 2001 and 2009. However, we still have very significant gaps.Nigeria has the largest burden of transmission of mother child of HIV in the world 30 per cent with about 70,000 children born every year with HIV. These children hardly live to see their third birthday without treatment.Idoko said much remained to be accomplished if future generations were to live in a world in which the threat of AIDS had been overcome.He said, If we are to transform the landscape of AIDS, it must remain highon the national and global agenda.We must move to a response that is long-term and sustainable-one thatmakes full use of the knowledge and resources developed over the past three decades, yet continues and respond to a changing world that is constantly influencing the future of AIDS.The NACA boss also called on donor agencies to ensure regular funding of the agency.He said, Funding remains largely externally driven and this is unsustainable. Over 80 per cent of our funding for the AIDS response is
from donors.

2011-11-06T05:24:00.001-08:00

BACKGROUND:
Nigeria is a country with great business and investment potentials, much of which lies in the abundant of human and natural resources. Tapping these resources requires organized efforts that can facilitate useful and economically viable entrepreneurial endeavors and business ventures. These efforts should target primarily the country’s most viable population, the youth. It is on this platform that Life-Skills Initiative for Youth empowerment and Development (LIFYEAD), designed a programme to help the youths, especially those that are educationally and economically disadvantaged to acquire knowledge and skills relevant to their success in life.
BRIEF HISTORY:
Life-Skills Initiative for Youth Empowerment and Development (LIFYEAD) is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) introduced in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka on July, 2008 by Nweke Prince O. Hails from Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State (South-East), Nigeria. However, the operation did not start immediately until July, 2009. The headquarter is located in Abia State while the branch operation is in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State. Its membership is drawn from all the Six Geo- political zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria headed by Regional Coordinator. LIFYEAD believed in Human Rights irrespective of ethic, Origin, birth, state, color, sex, language, beliefs and any form of discrimination is against our dignity and integrity.
ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE:
Our organization structure is made of the Board of Trustees, National Coordinator, Deputy National coordinator, National Secretary, Team Leader, Deputy Team Leader, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, Office Assistance, Account Auditor, Financial Officer, Treasurer, Project Coordinator, Programme Coordinator, Regional Coordinators, Resource Persons/Facilitators, Publicity Secretary, Special Advisors, Members and volunteers.
OUR VISION:
The initiative is poised to provide life-skills training experiences to youths of all categories so that they can acquire relevant knowledge and skills necessary for self development, productivity, creativity and dependency.
OUR MISSION:
To make the young generation competent in all spheres of human endeavours in order to be able to compete favourably with others in this rapidly changing society.
MEMBERSHIP:
Membership is free to all who are committed to achieving the vision and the objectives of the initiative inline with the MDGs
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
• To raise the awareness of youth to self-employment as a career option.
• To promote good governance and human rights (through reinforcing citizenship rights, improving prisoners conditions and promoting the resolution of conflict through peace)
• To inculcate in the youth ability to think about or plan the future with great imagination and innovation creativity.
• To Promote peace and security
• To empower young entrepreneurs with business related skills.
• To develop the appropriate support systems, which can facilitate the exchange of ideas and knowledge?
• To promote healthcares and treatment (HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing)
• To establish mechanisms capable of encouraging innovation and creativity.
• To reduce the rate of unemployment, poverty, crime, hunger etc. among the youth.
• To teach the youth essential practical life skills that is required for productive living (Vocational Production), like: simple cakes, creative arts, hair salon, barbing salon, welding, painting and decoration, bricklaying, carpentering, ability to operate computer and other local production for household (cosmetics productions) such like: local pomade, custard powder, yogurt, soya-beans, soya-milk, kitchen soap, shoe-polish, ice-cream, Detergent, and many other related skills like: ICT and Decorations
OUR ACTIVITIES:
 Leadership Skills
 Advocacy
 Youths Empowerment
 HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing
 Advanced Skill Acquisition
 ICT Awareness Sensitization
 Career Counseling
 Community Development Issues and Studies
 Poverty Reduction
 Eradication for Drug Abuses and Usage
 Decorations (Interior and Exterior)
 Gender Issues
 Health Cares Treatment: Diabetic/Hypertension Testing and Counseling
 Business Management
 Financial Management
OUR SPONSORS:
• Prince Computer Schools Ltd
• Confidence Computer Institute
• Richmond Open University
• Institute of African Studies
• Creativity Mobilization Movement
• Tomorrow Leaders Forum
• AfriHUB Nigeria Limited
• Youth Friendly Centre
• Nsukka Local Government Area
• Royal Crown Academy
• Pastor Helen Chika Henry
• Hon. Onyeke Chineme
• Alamo Ministries
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS:
•Access to our ICT training on advance programs.
•Free participation to local, regional, National and International Conferences, Workshops, Seminars, talk-shows etc
•Access to job opportunities with our employment agencies.
•Links to Networking, Coalitions, Donors and Agencies for Project Funding in your locality
•Recommendations to International NGOS base on the applicant’s Curriculum Vitae.
•Free access to real Job Opportunities within and outside the country especially with the following organizations: WHO, UNDP, USAID, UNICEF, UNDP, UNESCO, United Nations etc
•Free Access to information’s on any up-coming Local, Regional, National, International Conferences and •Workshops on Health, HIV/AIDS, Education/Scholarship, Community Development and Climate Change
•Free constant training on Advocacy, Good Governance, Proposal Writing, Financial Management, Entrepreneurship, Career Counseling, Report Writing, Peace and Conflict Resolution, Response to Proposal, Human Rights, Climate Change, Environmental Sanitation, HIV/AIDS Awareness, Counseling and Testing
•Ability to acquire our training skills and others packages.
•Free access to health care training and experience
OUR ACHIEVEMENTS SO FAR
 Training of Prisoners in Nsukka metropolis Through Skill Acquisition
 Training of Undergraduate Students for 2-Day ICT Sensitization in Partnership with AfriHub Nigeria Limited
 Training of Secondary Schools Students with Skill Acquisition to becomes self-reliant, developed, creative and productive at Hill-view Unique Secondary Schools Nsukka
 Training of Post Primary schools on ICT awareness especially during the long vacations in partnership with Prince Computer School Limited
 Training of students in movie acting, auditions, dancing and singing in partnership with Young Stars Institute
 Free Distribution of materials to the physically challenging ones within and outside the University community. Promoting and the first to marked International Youth Day (IYD) in Nsukka Metropolis which was made of different cooperate bodies, local and national organizations, CSO, Militaries and Paramilitaries bodies etc
 Been among the short-listed 50 NGOs in South East Geopolitical Zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the European Union INSIDE to partake on their Capacity Building Workshop Project which lasted for two weeks on the eradication for poverty, good governance, peace and security, respond to proposal writing, financial management, monitoring and evaluation and management issues.
 Flagging up our banner to fight against child labor, human trafficking, prostitution, poverty, and hunger in the society
 Free Magazine distribution on simple guide to skill acquisition and procedures.
 Donation of footballs to the best secondary schools (Anglican Grammar School, St. Theresa’s College and Royal Crown Academy) in NNPC/Shell sports Competition ably presented by Maj. Gen. Chris Sunday Eze (Deputy Chairman, Nsukka National Assembly)
 Hosting Annual Conference/Seminar for the Physically Challenging ones, Youths, and Inter-Secondary Schools which title: “Business, Skills and Education Transformation: A Challenge to Nigerian Development for the 21st Centaury, under the Distinguished chairmanship of Her Excellency, Mrs. Clara Chime, First Lady, Enugu State ably represented by the Commissioner for Gender, Enugu State.
 Hosting 5-days workshop on youth empowerment through Information Communication and Technology towards nation building capacity and Structural Adjustment Program to First year students in the University of Nigeria Nsukka
 Training of Students on Homemade Production such as Detergent, Shoe Polish, Odor control and Yogurt
 Publication of Articles, magazine with the press within and outside the state of operation.
 Award of Honors to Lovers of Youth Empowerment Programs and Development in Nigeria by LIFYEAD ably presented by His Royal Highness Igwe Dr. Patrick Okoro
 Training of young youths on leadership skills in partnership with Tomorrow Leaders Forum, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
 Free HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing in partnership with University Nigeria Nsukka Medical Service
 Training on Cosmetics and Vocational Productions to Young Girls and Women’s in Rural Areas.
 Eradication for Drug Abuses and Usage in Nsukka Metropolis and Schools.
LIFYEAD BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND DIRECTORY
1)Prof. P. N. C. Ngwu     -     Patron - Department of Adult Education, University of Nigeria
2)Prof. E. J. Otaburuagu    -    Staff Adviser/Director, Institute of African Studies, University of Nig.
3)Prof. P. U. Nwangwu    -    Spiritual Adviser
4)Prof. N .N. Elekwa      -        Former Head, Department of Public Administration, UU
5)Chief Dr. Mrs. M. A. Obi    -    Matron - Department of Public Administration, UNN
6)Dr. O. N. Nwakairi        -    Department of Adult Education, University of Nigeria – Nsukka
7)Chief Dr. Ndu Ukoha    -    9A Aba Road, Aba – Abia State
8)Engr. Denis Ikechukwu    -    20 Bendel Road, Off. Creek Rd. Water Side – Port – Harcourt

2011 LIFYEAD WYD Report

2011-11-05T05:05:00.001-07:00

THE REPORT OF THE LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (LIFYEAD), 2011 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY CELEBRATION IN THE UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE – NIGERIA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INTERNATIONAL YOUTH REFORMATION ORGANIZATION (IYOREF), LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA.

The 2011 Life-skills Initiative for Youth Empowerment and Development (LIFYEAD), held on August 12^th, 2011 on the campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State (South-East Region), Nigeria, co-hosted by International Youth Reformation Organization (IYOREF), Lagos State, Nigeria USA and sponsored by the University of Nigeria General Enterprises limited (UNGEL); Prince Computer School Limited, a division of Prince Holdings; Confidence Empowerment Foundation, Anambra State; University of Nigeria HIV/AIDS Unit; Living World Campus Fellowship (UNN) with nearly 172 students from different states in attendance; 8 youths delegates from different NGOs that focus on Youth Development around the South-East Region; 12 NGOs from different states and delegates representing their paramilitaries.

However, the International Youth Day celebration was organized in conjunction with our yearly conference with paper presentations which title: Nigerian Youth and their Unemployed Challenges: The possible Way Out: and was addressed by Rev. Joseph M. starling, Texas,

USA

and founder of the Place of Hope International.

Notwithstanding, some of the participating Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOS) includes the following:

1) University of Nigeria, Nsukka HIV/AIDS Team lead by Mrs. Ada okeke for conducting HIV/AIDSD testing and counseling

2) Name of Delegate: Chuwkuemeka Godswill

Organization: Greenland Consult (GC)

State: Enugu State

Phone: +234(0)806-662-5331, +234(0)803-242-2884

3) Name of Delegate: Dr. Mrs. V.C. Chibuko

Organization: Centre for Children and Youth Counseling (CCYC)
State: Enugu State

Phone: +234(0)803-073-2691

4) Name of Delegate: Hon. Nwachukwu Mathew

Organization: Potential Minds Initiative (PMI)

State: Abia State

Phone: +234(0)80

5) Name: Adebayo Oluwatosin

Organization: International Youth Reformation Organization (IYOREF)

State: Lagos State

Phone: +234(0)818-742-9033

6) Name: Ozuzu Promise

Organization: International Youth Counseling

Nigeria

(IYCN)

State: Imo State

Phone: +234(0)703-253-

7) Name:

Organization: National Association of Gifted and Talented Youth (NAGTY)

State: Ebonyi State

Phone: +234(0)806-923-0194

8) Name: Comrade Acha Emmanuel

Organization: Youth Education on Human Rights And Civil Responsibilities (YEHRCR)

State: Enugu State

Phone: +234(0)803-375-1328

Eventually, the event was covered as regards to Videoing by CUDIMAC and pictured by owoh Henry while Technical Assistant was Okechukwu Meletus and powered by Living World Campus Fellowship, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Finally, the event would not have been successful without the active participation of the following personalities:

1) Prof. Obasi Igwe - Lead Opening Ceremony

2) Pastor Eze Gideon - Opening Prayer

3) Prof. E.J. Otagburuagu - Staff Adviser

4) Prof. P.N.C. Ngwu - Patron

5) Dr. Goodhead Uchendu - Chairman of the occasion

6) Rev. Joseph M. Starling - Guest Speaker

7) Dr. Mrs. V.C. Chibuko - Co-Guest Speaker

8) Hon. Nwodo Ken - Chairman, Local Organizing committee

9) Nweke Prince - National Coordinator

10) Chika Henry - Programme Coordinator

Paper Presenters Include the following persons:

1) Attah Emmanuel

2) Hon. Nwachukwu Mathew – Potential Minds Initiative (PMI)

3) Chief Dr. Mrs. M.I.C. Adamere – Asebe Shehu Yar’dua Foundation (ASYF)

4) Ozuzu Promise – Intenational Youth Council, Nigeria (IYC)

5) Comrade Acha Emmanuel –

6) Dr. Mrs. V.C. Chibuko – Centre for Children and Youth counseling (CYCC)

7) Mrs. Okeke Ada – University Medical Services.

Basically, participants were also offered generously with food, snacks,

Soft drinks and free certificate of participation to all represent NGOs at the end of the event. At the closing remarks, the chairman, Local Organizing Committee – Mr. Nwodo ken finally thank and appreciate all delegates and other intended participants who showcase their present at the events irrespective of the on-going rain in the university community.

Once again, we thank you all and hoping to see you in our up coming Saturday, August 12^th, 2012 International Year of the Youth in Enugu State, Nigeria.

2011 LIFYEAD WYD Welcome Speech

2011-11-05T05:03:00.000-07:00

AN ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE NATIONAL COORDINATOR, LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (LIFYEAD), NWEKE PRINCE IN COLLABORATION WITH INTERNATIONAL YOUTH REFORMATION ORGANIZATION (IYOREF),NIGERIA-USA ON FRIDAY AUGUST 12^TH, 2011 IN NIGER HALL, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE

The Vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

The Chairman of the Occasion

The Head of the department of Political Science here present

The lords, Spiritual Temporal

Your Royal Highness

Chief and Elders here present

NGOs, CSOs, Foundations, Companies or representative here present

The Military and Paramilitaries, here present

Other Voluntary Organizations here present

Member of LIFYEAD and IYOREF here present,

Lovers of Youth empowerment and Development

Members of the Press

Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is with a deep sense of humility and dedication that I welcome you all to this joyful events to been held in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I equally extend a very warm welcome to the many NGOs, CSOs, Foundations, Companies or representatives, Royal Fathers and other distinguished friends, partners, men and women who have honored us their presence today. We are indeed grateful to God Almighty for bringing you here safely.

Notwithstanding, International Youth Day (IYD) was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in collaborations with other developed and developing countries around the world in December, 1999 which finally was declared in August 12^th, 2000 in United States of America. However, one of the major reasons for this notable day around the world is to celebrate the young youths energy, imagination, initiatives, skills, and to recognized their contributions and active participation towards enhancing peace and development in their various community.

I am to inform you that this NGO was initiated in 2008 while she started its operation in 2009 with 15 members. Today, this organization is fully recognized and approved by Nigerian Network of NGOs; world Youth Movement for Democracy; National coalition of Nigerian Youth in South-East Nigeria; World Association of NGOs; Global Youth Action Network; Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS; Nsukka Local Government and as well partners with many Local, Regional, National and International Organizations. The organization has today trained so many secondary schools; youth in different communities; undergraduate students of the university and many intended beneficiaries in the following areas, such as: ICT Component, Leadership Skills, Vocational skills, Youth Development, CV/Reporting writing, proposal Writing, and most especially in conducting HIV/AIDS testing and counseling with the assistance of the university medical HIV/AIDs unit till date. At present, the organization has 26 staff; 8 board of trustees; 12 resources persons, 6 advisors and 158 volunteers both within and outside the country.

If am permitted to say, I wills suggest that there is need for the government to encourage youth development issues; established training centres in rural communities; courage non-formal education system to enable the unemployed and the school drop out acquire some relevant skills to become creative, developed and self-reliant which on the other hand would help the nation to reduce the rate of crimes, election thugs, over-dependency and community violence in our respective homes.

Finally more details about this organization can be downloading in our blogspot, google search, facebook and linkedin and encyclopedia etc.

Ladies and gentlemen, NGOs, Foundations or representative here present, I once again thank you all for your kind attention. We wish you happy celebration and conference. May God in His infinitely mercy grant you all safe journey back to your respective destinations. Stay with us.

NWEKE PRINCE

NATIONAL COORDINATOR

(LIFYEAD)

People detained by the police in Vietnamfor using drugs are held without due process for years.

2011-09-09T03:31:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 7, 2011

Tens of thousands of men, women and children are being held against their will in government-run forced labor centers in Vietnam. This is not drug treatment, the centers should be closed, and these people should be released.

Joe Amon, health and human rights director at Human Rights Watch

(Bangkok) – People detained by the police in Vietnamfor using drugs are held without due process for years, forced to work for little or no pay, and suffer torture and physical violence, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. Government-run drug detention centers, mandated to “treat” and ”rehabilitate” drug users, are little more than forced labor camps where drug users work six days a week processing cashews, sewing garments, or manufacturing other items.

The 121-page report, “The Rehab Archipelago: Forced Labor and Other Abuses in Drug Detention Centers in Southern Vietnam,” documents the experiences of people confined to 14 detention centers under the authority of the Ho Chi Minh City government. Refusing to work, or violating center rules, results in punishment that in some cases is torture. Quynh Luu, a former detainee who was caught trying to escape from one center, described his punishment: “First they beat my legs so that I couldn't run off again... [Then] they shocked me with an electric baton [and] kept me in the punishment room for a month.”

“Tens of thousands of men, women and children are being held against their will in government-run forced labor centers in Vietnam,” said Joe Amon, health and human rights director at Human Rights Watch. “This is not drug treatment, the centers should be closed, and these people should be released.”

International donor support to the centers, and to the Vietnamese government’s Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, which oversees them, can have the perverse impact of enabling the government to continue to detain HIV-positive drug users, Human Rights Watch said. Under Vietnamese law, HIV-positive detainees have a right to be released if drug detention centers cannot provide appropriate medical care.

Vietnam’s system of forced labor centers for drug users has its origin in “re-education through labor” camps for drug users and sex workers established following the victory of North Vietnam in 1975. The centers received renewed political support in the mid-1990s during a government campaign to eradicate so-called “social evils,” including drug use. As Vietnam’s economy has modernized, the system has expanded. In 2000, there were 56 such centers across Vietnam; by early 2011, there were 123.

People are commonly held in the centers after police detain them or family members “volunteer” them for detention. In a few cases, individuals volunteer themselves, believing the centers provide effective drug dependency treatment.

Former detainees told Human Rights Watch that they were sent to the centers without a formal legal hearing or trial, and without seeing a lawyer or judge. They said that they were unaware of any means to review or appeal the decision to detain them. Those detainees who entered on a voluntary basis said that they were not free to leave and that their detention was arbitrarily extended by center management or changes in government policy.

Detainees described performing menial labor for long periods processing cashews, farming, sewing clothing and shopping bags, working in construction, and manufacturing products made from wood, plastic, bamboo, and rattan. Kinh Mon, a former detainee, told Human Rights Watch: “I did cashew husking for three years. I worked six and a half to eight hours a day to finish my quota. The fluid from the cashews burned my skin.”

Some detainees work for years without pay. Others are paid a fraction of the minimum wage, and center management deducts food, lodging and so-called “management fees” from their pay. At the end of their detention, some detainees said, their families had to pay the centers for debts that center officials claimed the detainees owed.

Since 1994, international donors have worked with these centers on “capacity building,” including training center staff in forms of drug dependency treatment and support for HIV interventions. The HIV prevalence of detainees is unknown, but has been variously reported at between 15 and 60 percent. Most centers offer no antiretroviral treatment or even basic medical care.

Some former detainees provided Human Rights Watch with the names of companies that allegedly had products processed in the centers. However the lack of transparency or any publicly accessible list of companies that have contracts with these government-run detention centers made corroborating the involvement of companies difficult. Often, detainees did not know the brand or company owning the products they worked on. Human Rights Watch said it is investigating companies that may have contracted with the detention centers.

Among the companies whose goods some detainees said they were forced to process were two Vietnamese companies, Son Long JSC, a cashew processing company, and Tran Boi Production Co. Ltd., which manufactures plastic goods. Human Rights Watch sent correspondence to both companies a number of times seeking their comments, but neither company replied.

Vietnamese media reports over the past decade identify both Son Long JSC and Tran Boi Productions Co. Ltd as producing products with detention center detainees. In 2011, the director of one detention center told a foreign journalist, with whom Human Rights Watch met, that Son Long JSC oversaw cashew processing within his center.

“Forced labor is not treatment, and profit-making is not rehabilitation,” Amon said. “Donors should recognize that building the capacity of these centers perpetuates injustice, and companies should make sure their contractors and suppliers are not using goods from these centers.”

Human Rights Watch called on the government of Vietnam to close down these centers permanently and to conduct an immediate, thorough, and independent investigation into torture, ill treatment, arbitrary detention, and other abuses in the country’s drug detention centers. The government should also make public a list of all companies that have contracts with detention centers for processing or manufacturing products.

Donors, and their implementing agencies, should review their assistance to detention centers and ensure that no funding is supporting policies or programs that violate international human rights law.

Companies working with Vietnam’s drug detention centers, including through sub-contractors, should end such relationships immediately, Human Rights Watch said.

“People who are dependent on drugs in Vietnam need access to community-based, voluntary treatment,” Amon said. “Instead, the government is locking them up, private companies are exploiting their labor, and international donors are turning a blind eye to the torture and abuses they face.”

NWEKE PRINCE

NATIONAL COORDINATOR

LIFYEAD, NIGERIA

+234(0)8064451455

2011-06-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

CALL FOR ARTICLES/INVITATION

The organization also welcome all research articles for publication from interested NGOs, CSOs, groups, and individuals who are working in the areas of Youth Issues and Development. Articles should be submitted in electronic to below Email Address:

Email: lifyeadng@yahoo.com

Pages: 10 pages,

Spacing: Double line,

Font: Arial,

Font Size: 12

Reference: APA format and must be well edited (at 5 References) not already published work or duplicate

Dateline: On or before August 5^th, 2011.

NOTE:

1) The Editorial Board deserves the right to accept or reject articles where it falls to meet the standard and such decision is final

2) Articles must include the followings:

Name:

Organization:

Email:

Mobile Number::

Position Held (If any):

LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA CHAPTER

HEADQUARTER: 94 Bonny Street, Umuahia-4244001, Abia State. REGIONAL OPERATION: Students Union Complex, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State Nigeria. TEL: +234(0) 8064451455, +234(0)8050955066 E-mail: lifeskillsinitiative@yahoo.com

Dear,

INVITATION LETTER

Life-skills Initiative for Youth Empowerment and Development (LIFYEAD), located in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka community humbly invite you to their forth coming 2^nd International Youth Day Celebration.

LIFYEAD is a recognized Regional Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Nigeria Network of NGOs, World Association of NGOs, Interagency Coalition on AIDS and Development, Nigerian Non-State Actors, Global Youth Action Network, World Movement for Democracy and most effective committed to bringing relief to youths and privilege persons and as well to provide life-skills training experiences as alternative to formal system of education to all categories of persons to enable them acquire the needed knowledge and skills necessary for self-reliant, developed, depended and creative for their human capacity building.

Arrival of the Guests: Thursday August 11^th, 2011

Date: Friday August 12^th, 2011

Time: 11:00am

Venues: Niger Hall, CEC Hotel, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State

Royal Father of the Day: HRH, Igwe Dr. Patrick Okoro

Expected Guest Speaker: Prof. Obasi Igwe

Lead Opening Ceremony: Rev.

Participant’s Benefits:

1) Free Registration/Membership

2) Free HIV/AIDs Status

3) Free Sim Card Registration to all Networks

4) Free Writing Materials

5) Free Counseling

6) Free HBP Status

7) Certificate of Participation

8) New Experience and Networking

Debate Title: Nigerian Youths want the Nigerian Government to pay allowance to unemployed graduates.

Yours in the service of humanity,
PASTOR ONAH EMMANUEL

Programme Coordinator

For more enquires, Advert Stand, Publication, Special Presentation, call: +234 (0)8064451455, +234 (0)8050955066 or mailto: lifyeadng@yahoo.com more details can be obtain at: http://www.lifyeadnigeria.blogspot.com

Cc:

DVC (Admin), UNN

Chief Security Officer, UNN

Patron, Prof. P.N.C. Ngwu

Dean, Students Affairs

Special Adviser, Prof. E.J. Otagburuagu

Advisor: Dr.N.Ownuzuruike

Prince George Ehizonaga

Engr. Sunday Offia

Area Commander, Nigeria Police Force

Global Youth Action Network

Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDs

World Movement for Democracy

Nigeria Network of NGOs

Centre for Children and Youth Counseling

Nigeria Alcohol Prevention Youth Network

Etc.

2011-06-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL INVITATION

LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA CHAPTER

MOST HONORABLY INVITE THE GENERAL PUBLIC, FOUNDATIONS, CSOS, NGOS, CBOS, AND YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS ETC.

To their 2^nd International Youth Day Celebration/Debate Presentation

Arrival of the Guests: Thursday August 11^th, 2011

Date: Friday August 12^th, 2011

Time: 11:00am

Venues: Niger Hall, CEC Hotel, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Royal Father of the Day: HRH, Igwe Dr. Patrick Okoro

Expected Guest Speaker: Prof. Obasi Igwe

Lead Opening Ceremony: Rev. Joseph Starling, USA

Dress Code: Cooperate

Participant’s Benefits:

1) Free Registration/Membership

2) Free HIV/AIDs Status

3) Free Sim Card Registration to all Networks

4) Free Writing Materials

5) Free Counseling

6) Free HBP Status

7) Certificate of Participation

8) New Experience and Networking

DEBATE TITLE: Nigerian Youths want the Nigerian Government to pay allowance to unemployed graduates.

NOTE: Articles are also accepted for publication but must be focus on youth’s issues in not less than 10 pages, double line, Arial, at least 5 Reference in APA format and must be well edited to be forwarded at lifyeadng@yahoo.com on or before August 5^th, 2011. Cover page must include: Name, Organization, Email, Mobile Number, and Country of birth.

Yours in the service of humanity,

PASTOR ONAH EMMANUEL

Programme Coordinator

Networking Links:

Global Youth Action Network, Mexico

Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDs, New York

Centre for Children and Youth Counseling, Nigeria

Global Volunteer Network, New Zealand

Nigeria Network of NGOs, Nigeria

National Coalition of Nigerian Youth in South-East, Nigeria

Global peace Youth Corps, Washington

Youth Federation for World Peace, New York

Youth for Human Rights, USA

Cc: DVC (Admin), UNN, Chief Security Officer, UNN, Patron, Prof. P.N.C. Ngwu,Dean, Students Affairs ,Special Adviser, Prof. E.J. Otagburuagu, Advisor: Dr.N.Ownuzuruike, Prince George Ehizonaga, Engr. Sunday Offia, Area Commander, Nigeria Police Force, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDs, World Movement for Democracy, Nigeria Network of NGOs, Centre for Children and Youth Counseling , Nigeria Alcohol Prevention Youth Network, Etc

LIFYEAD -CALL FOR INVITATION

2011-06-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

LIFE-SKILLS INITIATIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (LIFYEAD) hold their International Youth Day on August 12th, 2011 at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The International Youth Day is annually held on August 12 to celebrate the achievements of the world’s youth and to encourage their participation in enhancing society. Interested participant can apply today through text message: Name, country, email and Mobile Number to +234(0)8064451455 and no flashing. Articles are also accepted for publication at: lifyeadng@yahoo.com on or before August 5th, 2011. Note: all articles must focus on Youth Issues and must well edit to include: Name, Country, Sex, and email. It would exceed 10 pages, Font: Arial, Font Size: 12, Spacing: double line.

Announcer:

Publicity secretary,

LIFYEAD, Nigeria.

More details about the event will publish soon. stay with us.

NIGERIAN HUMAN RIGHTS OBSERVATION

2011-05-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

The May inauguration of President Goodluck Jonathan, following the death from natural causes of President Umaru Yar'Adua, brought hope for improvements in Nigeria's deeply entrenched human rights problems. Jonathan's removal of the attorney general, under whose watch impunity flourished, and his appointment of a respected academic to replace the discredited head of the electoral commission, who presided over phenomenally flawed elections, were widely viewed as positive first steps. Yet major challenges remain.
During the year, episodes of intercommunal violence claimed hundreds of lives, while widespread police abuses and the mismanagement and embezzlement of Nigeria's vast oil wealth continued unabated. Perpetrators of all classes of human rights violations enjoyed near-total impunity. A spate of politically motivated killings by Islamist militants in the north, and continued kidnappings and violence by Niger Delta militants - including the brazen Independence Day bombing in Abuja, the capital, for which they claimed responsibility -raised concern about stability in the run-up to planned 2011 general elections.
The National Assembly again failed to pass legislation to improve transparency, notably the Freedom of Information bill, but approved a watered-down version of an electoral reform bill. Nigeria's judiciary continues to exercise a degree of independence in electoral matters and has, since 2007, overturned more than one-third of the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial election victories on grounds of electoral malpractices and other irregularities. Meanwhile free speech and the independent press remained fairly robust. Foreign partners took some important steps to confront endemic corruption in Nigeria, but appeared reluctant to exert meaningful pressure on the government over its poor human rights record.
Intercommunal and Political Violence
Intercommunal, political, and sectarian violence has claimed the lives of more than 14,500 people since the end of military rule in 1999. During 2010, episodes of intercommunal violence in Plateau State, in central Nigeria, left over 900 dead. In January several hundred were killed in sectarian clashes in and around the state capital of Jos, including a massacre on January 19 that claimed the lives of more than 150 Muslims in the nearby town of Kuru Karama. Shortly thereafter, on March 7, at least 200 Christians were massacred in Dogo Nahawa and several other nearby villages. In the months that followed more than 100 people died in smaller-scale attacks and reprisal killings in Jos and surrounding communities. Meanwhile intercommunal clashes in Nassarawa, Niger, Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba, Ogun, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states left more than 110 dead and hundreds more displaced. State and local government policies that discriminate against "non-indigenes"-people who cannot trace their ancestry to what are said to be the original inhabitants of an area-exacerbate intercommunal tensions.
Widespread poverty and poor governance in Nigeria have created an environment where militant groups thrive. In Bauchi State in December 2009, violent clashes between government security forces and rival factions of a militant Islamist group known as Kala Kato left several dozen dead, including more than 20 children. Between July and October 2010, suspected members of the Boko Haram Islamist group killed eight police officers, an Islamic cleric, a prominent politician, and several community leaders in the northern city of Maiduguri, and in September attacked a prison in Bauchi, freeing nearly 800 prisoners, including more than 100 suspected Boko Haram members.
Targeted killings and political violence increased ahead of the 2011 elections. In January 2010 Dipo Dina, an opposition candidate in the 2007 gubernatorial elections in Ogun State, was gunned down. In a series of attacks in Bauchi State in August, gunmen killed two of the state governor's aides and a security guard for an opposition candidate for governor, and injured several others. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has still not held accountable those responsible for the 2007 election violence that left at least 300 dead.
Conduct of Security Forces
Again in 2010, members of the Nigeria Police Force were widely implicated in the extortion of money and the arbitrary arrest and torture of criminal suspects and others. They solicited bribes from victims of crimes to initiate investigations, and from suspects to drop investigations. They were also implicated in numerous extrajudicial killings of persons in custody. Meanwhile senior police officials embezzle and mismanage funds intended for basic police operations. They also enforce a perverse system of "returns," in which rank-and-file officers pay a share of the money extorted from the public up the chain of command.
The government lacked the will to reform the police force and hold officers accountable for these and other serious abuses. At this writing, none of the police officers responsible for the brazen execution of the Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Yusuf, and dozens of his suspected supporters in Maiduguri in July 2009 have been prosecuted. Similarly, the government has still not held members of the police and military accountable for their unlawful 2008 killing of more than 130 people during sectarian violence in Jos, or for the 2001 massacre by the military of more than 200 people in Benue State, and the military's complete destruction of the town of Odi, Bayelsa State, in 1999.
Government Corruption
Nigeria made limited progress with its anti-corruption campaign in 2010. The national Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) indicted more than a dozen politicians and senior government officials on corruption charges, including a former federal government minister, a former state governor, and a handful of state officials. However, the EFCC failed to indict other senior politicians implicated in the massive looting of the state treasury, including former Rivers State governor Peter Odili.
Key convictions included that of a powerful banker, sentenced to six months in prison in October, and a former head of the national anti-drug agency, sentenced to four years in prison in April for taking bribes from a criminal suspect, the longest sentence handed down to a government official to date. Meanwhile, the governing elite continues to squander and siphon off the country's tremendous oil wealth, leaving poverty, malnutrition, and mortality rates among the world's highest.
Targeted attacks against anti-corruption officials increased significantly in 2010. Gunmen in three separate incidents shot and killed anti-corruption personnel, including the head of the forensic unit and a former senior investigator. Still, Nuhu Ribadu, the former EFCC head, returned to Nigeria in June, after fleeing the country in 2009 following what he believed to be an assassination attempt.
Violence and Poverty in the Niger Delta
Following a lull in violence in the oil-rich Niger Delta, attacks increased, including kidnappings of schoolchildren, wealthy individuals, and oil workers, and car bombings in Delta State, Bayelsa State, and Abuja. The 2009 amnesty - in which a few thousand people, including top militant commanders, surrendered weapons in exchange for cash stipends - led to a reduction of attacks on oil facilities in 2010, but their disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration have been poorly planned and executed. The amnesty has further entrenched impunity, and the government has made little effort to address environmental degradation, endemic state and local government corruption, or political sponsorship of armed groups, which drive and underlie violence and poverty in the region.
Human Rights Concerns in the Context of Sharia
In northern Nigeria 12 state governments apply Sharia law as part of their criminal justice systems, which include sentences such as the death penalty, amputations, and floggings that amount to cruel, inhuman, and degrading punishment. Serious due process concerns also exist in Sharia proceedings, and evidentiary standards in the Sharia codes discriminate against women, particularly in adultery cases.
Death Penalty
There are about 870 inmates, including over 30 juvenile offenders, on death row in Nigeria. Although Nigeria has an informal moratorium on the use of the death penalty, state governors in 2010 announced plans to consider resuming executions to ease prison congestion.
Freedom of Expression and the Media
Civil society and the independent press openly criticize the government and its policies, allowing for robust public debate. Yet journalists are subject to intimidation and violence when reporting on issues implicating the political and economic elite. Edo Ugbagwu, a journalist with The Nation, one of Nigeria's largest newspapers, was gunned down at his Lagos home in April. In Jos two journalists with a local Christian newspaper were killed in sectarian clashes in April, while a Muslim journalist from Radio Nigeria was badly beaten in March, in an attack the journalist said was incited by a state government official.
Key International Actors
Because of Nigeria's role as a regional power, leading oil exporter, and major contributor of troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions, foreign governments-including the United States and the United Kingdom-have been reluctant to publicly criticize Nigeria's human rights record.
US government officials did speak out forcefully against the country's endemic government corruption and took an important first step to back up these words by revoking the visa of former attorney general Michael Aondoakaa. The UK government continued to play a leading role in international efforts to combat money laundering by corrupt Nigerian officials, demonstrated by the May arrest in Dubai of the powerful former Delta State governor, James Ibori, on an Interpol warrant from the UK, and the conviction of two of his associates in an English court in June for laundering his funds. However, in fiscal year 2010, the UK increased funding to £140 million (US$225 million) in aid to Nigeria, including security sector aid, without demanding accountability for Nigerian officials and members of the security forces implicated in corrupt practices and serious human rights abuses.
The UN secretary-general expressed his concern about the intercommunal violence in Jos, but at this writing a mission by his special adviser on the prevention of genocide is stalled due to resistance from the Nigerian government.

Postponement of the forth coming 2011 Annual Conference

2011-05-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

The National Co-ordinator and Management of LIFYEAD regret to announce the postponement of the forth-coming May 20th, 2011 Annual Youth Conference due to the up-coming State Governorship and Presidential swearing in Nigeria in which our members are fully involve. We also hereby promise to announce the new date. Stay in touch. Bless You.

Nweke Prince
National Co-ordinator,
LIFYEAD, Nigeria
West Africa

Invitation to Public Lecture Presentation

2011-02-25T19:09:00.000-08:00

The National Coordinator, Staff and Board of Trustees of Life-skills Initiative for Youth Empowerment and Development (LIFYEAD), in collaboration with International Youth Reformation Organization whishes to inform and as well to invite you to their up-coming one-day public lecture presentation in the university community thus schedule:
Theme: Peace and Security in Nigerian Universities Community
Date: May 20th, 2011
Venue: Niger Hall, CEC, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Time: 12:00 Noon prompt

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF THE EVENT:
1)To support the peace process and conflict prevention in the University Community.
2)To shun down violence and to disassociate the youth from violent campaign against their opponents.
3)To promote the university and its administration reforms.
4)To promote the resolution of conflicts through peaceful means.
5)To amplify recognition, hard working and innovation among students and staff.

EXPECTED GUEST SPEAKERS:
1)Honorable Commissioner for Justice, Enugu State
2)Mr. Danjuma M. Lawal, Area Commander, Nigeria Police Force – Nsukka
3)Mr. U.J. Eneze, Unit Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission – Nsukka
4)Mr. Uzoma, Chief Security officer, University of Nigeria , Nsukka

SPECIAL GUESTS OF HONOUR:
1)Hon. Anthony O. Ugwu, Executive Chairman, Nsukka Local Government Area
2)Hon. Prince George Ehizonga, M/D – Prince Holding Company Nig.
3)Engr. Offia Sunday, M/D – Confidence Computer Institute

SPECIAL INVITEES:
5)Department of Students Affairs, University of Nigeria , Nsukka
6)Youth Friendly Centre, UNN
7)Centre for Children and Youth Counseling, Enugu State
8)National Youth Council of Nigeria
9)Global Youth Action Network
10)OAK of Hope Foundation
11)NNNGOs on Youth Issues

Chief Host: Prof. Bartho Okolo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Host: LIFYEAD – Nigeria
Chairman, Local Organizing Committee: Pastor Onah Emmanuel

NWEKE PRINCE O.
National Coordinator.
+234 (0) 8064451455

Cc: Vice-Chancellor, UNN
DVC (Administration)
Area Commander, NPF
Unit Commander, FRSC
Chief Security Officer, UNN
Dean, Students Affairs
Executive Chairman, Nsukka LGA

About Us

2010-10-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

2010-08-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

EU LAUNCHES 20M EUROS….. EMPOWERS 150 NON-STATE ACTORS (NSAs) IN THE SOUTH EAST GEOPOLITICAL ZONE OF THE FEDERATION

The European Union (EU) has empowered 150 Non-State Actors’ implantation and Development Expertise (INSIDE) programme, which took place from the 8th of August to 22nd of August, 2010 at the Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu State .

NSAs (Non-State Actors) selected from three states- Enugu , Anambra and Enugu State which make up the South East Geopolitical Zone benefited from the capacity building workshop. The EU-INSIUDE, Team Leader, Walter Bresseleers stress that the two weeks programme was designed to help NSAs build their expertise for development on the thematic areas of EU-INSIDE Programme which are: Peace and Security, Human Rights, Good Governance, Managerial Issues, financial management, leadership skills, Monitoring and Evaluation, Climate Change, water and Environmental Sanitation so as to strengthen the enhancement of peace and good governance, advocacy and eventually meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)

Eventually, experts on various fields facilitated the events which ended with the award of certificates and training manuals to the participants. Some of the NGOs awardees include: Life-skills Initiative for Youth Empowerment and Development; Crown-Kop Capacity Foundation, Anambra State; Neighborhood Initiative for Women Advancement, Ebonyi State ; Centre for Children and Youth Counseling, Enugu ; South Saharan Social Development Organization, Oak of Hope Foundation and many others.

2010-08-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL MESSAGE ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY 12 August 2010

This year's commemoration of International Youth Day also marks the launch of the International Year of Youth, under the theme “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding”.

Today's challenging social and economic environment warrant a special focus on youth. Eighty-seven per cent of people aged 15 to 24 live in developing countries. The global economic crisis has had a disproportionate impact on young people; they have lost jobs, struggled to find even low-wage employment and seen access to education curtailed. As economies slowly begin to stabilize, the needs of young people should be paramount.

This is a moral imperative and a developmental necessity. But it is also an opportunity: the energy of youth can ignite faltering economies. I am regularly inspired by the good will, talent and idealism of the young people I meet across the world. They are making important contributions to our work to eradicate poverty, contain the spread disease, combat climate change and achieve the Millennium Development Goals. I call on Member States to increase their investments in young people so they can do even more.

During the International Year, the United Nations and its youth organization partners will focus on the need to encourage dialogue and understanding across generations, cultures and religions. In a world in which different peoples and traditions are coming into closer, more frequent contact than ever before, it is crucial that young people learn how to listen

LIFYEAD 2010 Publications at UNN

2010-04-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

THE SPIRIT AND MINDSET OF EXCELLENCE

BY

PROFESSOR PETER U. NWANGWU, M.Sc., Pharm.D., Ph.D.

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER,

UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (UNRED) FOUNDATION

INTRODUCTION

We all have one life to live. Our life is a precious gift from God; what we make of it is a gift to our society and fellow humans. What you make out of your life, depends on what you put into your life. The development of a life is like the building of a house. In building a house you need an architectural plan, a solid foundation, good building materials, and fine finishing details. Let us consider these four elements of building a house, as illustration of what is needed in the development of the mindset of the new Nigerian youth.

Elements of Building the Mindset of Excellence in the New Nigerian Youth

1. Architectural Plan: Anybody building a good house today needs an architectural plan. The more thoughtful and detailed the plan, the better the outcome of the finished product. You cannot build a house by chance or guess work. The New Nigerian Youth must have a development plan. If the development of any life is by guess work or accident, the quality of the finished human product is often undesirable. The New Nigerian Youth has responsibility to have a thoughtful and carefully developed plan for the building of his or her life. Such plans must include proper education, development of proper culture, social and professional skills, patriotism, sense of duty and responsibility, entrepreneurism, and love for God and fellow humans.

2. Solid Foundation: Nobody builds a good house on the sand. Any good building requires a foundation. The more solid the foundation, the more lasting the building. The new Nigerian cannot build his or her life on sand. All that glitters is not gold. The new Nigerian youth must go beyond the glitter, and find real gold for his or her life. You have one life to live. You must build it properly on solid foundation, or it will collapse when the winds of life blow.

3. Good Building Materials: Any thoughtful builder is very concerned about the quality of the building materials they use. A good builder wants original materials, not fake materials. The new Nigerian youth cannot build his or her life with fake materials. As they say in America, “Garbage in, garbage out”. If you build your life with garbage, you will be Mr. Garbage or Miss Garbage, unfit for society and useless to your fellow humans.

4. Fine Finishing Details: The quality and appeal of a finished house includes the choice of fine finishing details. Remember that fine finishing details is a matter of choice; but it shows. The new Nigerian youth must have the appetite for choice of fine finishing details in the development of his or her life. If you are a fine polished gentleman or lady, it shows. You become delightful, thoughtful, pleasant to be around, with impeccable character, excellent mindset, and adorable disposition.

Some Practical Steps Toward the Goal

1. Never stop learning

- Be teachable

- Expand your horizon

2. Have an educated mindset

- Make informed and educated decisions and choices.

3. Develop simple appetites, and shun a life of ostentation.

4. Humility is better than pride and arrogance

- “Pride – the self-polishing wax”

- The art of self-polishing originates from a state of psychological insecurity.

- Pharmacist Okeke, Engineer Okafor, Surveyor Nwokezuke, some of you may introduce yourselves as Dr. Egodinma.

- What is wrong with, “My name is Peter Nwangwu”?

5. Be reliable, honorable and dependable as a tradition and life style

- Let your Yes be Yes, and No be No.

6. Develop healthy life styles

- Healthy eating habits

- Good exercise and relaxation programs

- Invest in a few good friends

7. In your job, become indispensable

8. Be an entrepreneur if you can

- The fundamental principle for success in business development is providing excellent service or product needed by fellow humans.

- If you can identify a human need -- in service or product -- and if you can find a good way to fill that need reliably, you will become a multi-millionaire.

- How do you select a product or service?

- Something that will solve the need of many, at a fair and affordable price.

• Once you have selected a product/service, what next?

- Comprehensive business plan, including financial plan, risk assessment, and contingencies.

- Source funds, engage responsible staff.

- Operate the business.

• In operating any business, the customer is king.

- Satisfied customers is the life wire of a business.

• You must have a hands-on approach. Cannot afford to be an absent manager, not in Nigeria.

• Should have excellent nationwide marketing operation; or plans to grow into that, based on regional marketing groups.

• Should have effective research and development group, for new services or product development.

• Honesty and integrity should be the standard operating procedure, ALWAYS.

9. All that glitters is not gold

- Learn how to separate noise from real thing

- There is a lot of noise and glitter around you

- The world around you will lie to you everyday

- Will you be a victim, or can you read in between the line, and control your destiny?

Summary

As the saying goes, “As you make your bed, so must you lie on it”. You have one life to live. Make it a beautiful productive life. Have a good plan for building your life, build your life on a solid foundation, use good building materials, not fake materials, and choose fine finishing details to enrich the appeal of your life. May God bless Nigeria through the gracefulness of the young men and women with a true spirit of excellence?

TIME MANAGEMENT FOR AN OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTH

Nwakaire O.N. Department of Adult Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka

In the contemporary Nigerian society, many youths have been thrown off-balance. This derives from the poor background given from primary through tertiary education. These institutions have not equipped the youth with the skills needed to cope with life, so as to become self-reliant. Once out-of-school therefore, the youths tend to grope like sheep without a shepherd.

However, it is important that the youths be informed that all hope is not lost. The purpose of this brief write-up is to show the youths a way out of the dilemma and enable them bounce back developing the needed resilience to tackle life after school. The whole thing is predicated on time-management after school.

There are scores of skills available for the youths to fall back to in order to ensure that they do not waste useful years. The youths can learn fashion designing and organize themselves into cooperatives. If they do this the banks may offer them loans to equip themselves.

Some youths are driving literate. The skill of driving can be employed gainfully. If the youths organize themselves into cooperatives, they may be able to purchase a bus for a start and raise money for themselves. Of course this will require proper contract agreement to avoid swindling by unscrupulous members.

The deficiencies that may be detected in primary schools may be corrected if – An English Graduate, Mathematics Graduate, Physics, Geography, Igbo, Biology, History, Social Sciences etc band themselves together and run lessons, then transit to primary, to secondary, JAMB UME etc, raise money from school fees and establish their own schools.

These borders on time management, as acknowledged by Nwakaire (2004:123) in managing time, it is necessary to keep one’s mind in clear focus. What one wants to achieve must be clearly defined and urgent action must follow. So the first step in managing time is to realize its fleeting nature and start to manage it immediately.

Planning of time is vital if one is to achieve the most within the available time. The reality of life is that it is dynamic. At each phase you should be able to cope. If you are 20 today, in the next decade you will be 30, the next 40, next 50 etc. along with each decade come changes; physical, emotional, spiritual and mental lent there are two poems that will assist you:

INSPIRATION

How are you heading? On up-grade

Fearless, dauntless and unafraid

The light of victory in your eye

Your shoulders squared and head held high

Because you vowed, “I shall prevail!”

You dare not, cannot, must not fail

No power on earth can hold you back,

You’re traveling on the victor’s track,

On, on, scale heights that tower so steep,

Through storm and night and tempest sweep,

The goal is yours, you’ll win the prize

Though off you stumble, quickly rise –

Be not discouraged, still pursue,

Until life’s best is won by you

(from a very old Psychology magazine)

The second poem also belongs to the Ages. If you recite this poem every morning when you arise, you will definitely change for the better.

Listen to the exhortation of the dawn;

Look well to this day!

For it’s life, the very life of life!

In its brief course, lie all the

Varieties and Realities of your Existence,

The Bliss of Growth,

The Glory of Action,

The Splendour of Beauty,

For yesterday is but a dream,

And Tomorrow is only a Vision

But Today, well lived, makes

Every yesterday a Dream of Happiness

And every Tomorrow a Vision of Hope

Look well therefore to this Day,

Such is the Salutation of the Dawn

(From the Sanskrit).

You cannot afford to be idle. Use your time wisely and immediately in line with the exhortation above and you will succeed. You must be humble to succeed.

Skills: A Natural Tool for Human Development

Nweke Prince and Onyeidu Emmanuel

University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Introduction

Are you winning or losing at the game of life? Would you like to be living a more wonderful life? If so, you practically need to learn more about the basics skills for your journey here and thereafter through life. Whether you choose to succeed in life, gain mastery, or attain happiness ... there are essential life skills you need to win at the game of life..

It is unfortunately, that many of us today never get to see the list of basic skills we need to develop ... and so we never know if we are getting towards the things we need to know. And if one refuses to acquire practical life skills, there is the tendency that we are likely going to hit a pothole in life ... sometimes getting stranded by the side of the road.

In other to make to sure that this experience or illustration does not happen to you in life, we advice you to take a moment now and think about the skills you need to thrive in this modern world of challenges. And any skills you preferable need to acquire to make your dreams come true are to start it now, today and not tomorrow. However, below are some of the illustrated skills we briefly outline to help you adjust your life and as well to earn your living in your society.

Self Knowledge Skills

Often the most valuable skills we learn are ones that help us learn about ourselves.

• To know who you are, who you can become, and how you can excel in life

• Understand your fate, destiny & potential

• To know what your life calling and purpose are and the things that create meaning and bring joy into your life

• Find your place in the World

• To gain a wide range of experiences to draw on by traveling around the world.

• Make excellent life choices that are in your best interests

• Shape a strong character where virtues can be cultivated and nourished, and tested in the real life world

• To learn how to stay focused on what is important and wisely deal with diversions and distractions

• To understand each life stage and the challenges, opportunities, and obstacles each brings to you

Work Skills

• To know what skills you are good at and what gifts and talents help you excel, so that you can know what you are great at and to have people value in you.

• To know how the business world works as defined by the worldwide labor market, global economics, industry dynamics company structures, hiring practices and career paths.

• To be an intelligent, productive, hard working and ethical employee or employer.

• To not only be self sustainable, but to earn a good living -- enough to be able to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, education and medical care for you and your loved ones.

Managing Money Skills

Money makes the world goes round, serve as the root of all evils brings value, personality, integrity, respect and as well a funds that can make our dreams come true.

• To not only be able to do simple math, but handle money, budget, and save wisely

• To know the difference between spending and investing, income and expenditure, hard to get and easy to spend.

• To put money aside for a rainy day, large purchases and down payments on housing and transportation

• To invest in lifelong learning and new skills to stay competitive and interested in life

Problem Solving Skills

One of the most common human tasks is problem solving, and these skills reflect that.

• To be able to think deeply and critically about problems. Specifically, to recognize the symptoms, trace them to the root of the problem, name it, identify and evaluate possible solutions, select the appropriate solution and implement it.

• To know how the world works as defined by mathematical formulas and other representations of cause and effect in the physical world.

• To be able to identify challenges and obstacles, understand their impact and significance, and know how to overcome them or go around them.

• To effectively solve problems and learn from your mistakes

• To make good decisions and keep your commitments (two sources of self-made problems)

• Know how to begin, arrive at the middle and end

• Arrive at compromises, blend opposites, find a Higher middle ground

Communication Skills

We also need to learn how to communicate with other people, as well as convey our thoughts, ideas and feelings to the ones we love and work with.

• To not only be able to read well, but be literate in all the best examples of the written word so you can spot common themes and think about universal ideas.

• To be able to not only write, but communicate well with others about your thoughts, feelings, ideas, opinions, taste preferences, values and beliefs.

• To converse easily with a wide variety of people and speak the Truth from your heart

Living Skills

Many people think basic living skills are being able to do the laundry and run the dishwasher. But life has so many more challenges to offer.. And you need the skills to cope.

• To be able to observe the world, reason, and draw accurate and rational conclusions.

• To understand how to live a healthy life and make life-fulfilling decisions about food, physical exercise, sleep, and the way you use your life energy.

• To learn about the chain of consequences that flow from both small and large actions and to take responsibility for both your actions and all their consequences.

• To be able to navigate the world around you and be able to travel safely where ever you need to go.

• To understand the major life decisions you face and know how to make good choices based on your current situation and future possibilities.

• To understand universal life themes and how to turn them from abstract concepts into concrete actions. These include ... justice, freedom, honor, integrity, respect, fairness, ethics, love, jealously, joy, greed.

• To get a useful education and become smarter in the ways of the world

• To develop and cultivate a good sense of humor to get you through the tough times

• To be wisely optimistic so you can see the possibilities in crises and take advantage of windows of opportunity

• To create life affirming habits so you naturally act in your own best interests, even when you are running on autopilot through your life

• To learn how to wisely take risks for a Handsome reward and know when to harvest and exit, as well as when to enter and sow

• To know how to turn worry into taking action so that your energy is used in finding solutions and taking action instead of wheel spinning

• To understand life situations & Nature's Laws so you can trace the laws of cause and effect and use them to your advantage

• To find the keys to success (mastery, self fulfillment, happiness, enlightenment) and share them with the ones you love

• To find meaning & create significance in the events of your life so you can understand how it is unfolding and where it is going

• To be able to adapt to circumstances and take effective action

• To understand and use power Wisely so you can influence the unfolding of events in your life and the lives of those you love

• To understand people, what they want and how to help them discover, fund and live their dreams

• To discover and keep updating what brings you happiness ... and lets you bring happiness to others

• To be able to accept & embrace ambiguity in a world where uncertainty is the norm and nothing is normal

• To find the silver lining in events and learn how to use it to create rainbows of opportunity

• To l earn from mistakes (yours and others) and be able to put the past behind You and s tart over or anew Gracefully

• To keep an open mind so you can sort lies from truth and evolve your ideas and theories as the world evolves

Relationship Skills

Some of the most challenging skills to learn are how to get along with others.

• To get along with others, respect their individuality and strengths, as well as understand their weaknesses and needs.

• To be able to form friendships, alliances, temporary teams, study groups, and negotiate the world of cliques and social hierarchies.

• To be able to listen to, understand, respect, and follow authorities as well as undertake leadership roles and use power wisely.

• To be a thoughtful and informed citizen who votes, pays taxes, obeys the laws, participates in helping the community thrive and serves to protect and defend the rights and life of others.

• To be a considerate, compassionate and responsible home owner, neighbor and community member.

• To be a kind, loving and supportive family member.

• To find and connect with another person and commit your heart, head and resources to nurture and champion their dreams -- and have them do the same to you.

• To create great friendships, nurture them and maintain lifelong friendships with kindred spirits and true friends

• To build a strong, supportive family of your own that respects each member, honors their differences and embraces them for who they are

• To b e welcomed into a culture (your own or another) as a valuable member worthy of respect and caring

• To treat others as equals, encourage them and champion their dreams

• To help others when all they need is a helping hand

• To act as a good role model and find ones of your own to inspire and guide you throughout your life

PERCEPTION OF DISABILITY

BY

MISS NNENNA PRECIOUS ALAUKWU

(Ability in Disability - 08036875841)

Everybody dreads anything that has to do with disability no matter the form it takes. Since it makes a person vulnerable to a lot of things, ranging from verbal and physical assaults, different forms of humiliation and poverty to whatever could be imagined.

To an African traditional view, a disabled person is one who is suffering the consequences of the sins he committed in his former life. People who belong to this school of thought regard people with disability as only good –for –begging, not fit to be seen or heard. Also they believe that anybody who is doing anything with them is attracting the anger of God.

To a specialist, a disabled person is one who is suffering as a result of one form of disease, accident or the other, which in the course of time has rendered one or more of the organs in sufferer’s body ineffective. The specialist recommends that if rehabilitated, such a person could function properly like any other person in the society.

The philosopher, on the other hand, sees everybody as disabled with one form of disability or the other. Philosophers equally opine that there is no permanence in life.

In Nigeria, the only people seen as being disabled are those who have form of disability or the other. Following this view, all should acknowledge it and sundry that so many people are disabled without them being aware of it. For instance, a child who finds it difficult to grasp what the teacher teaches is intellectual disabled. A teacher who does not know how to impact knowledge effectively to his students is disabled in knowledge impartation. A manager who does not know how to relate effectively with his staff is disabled in personnel management.

Following the trend of events, one may be forced to say that more than 75% of members of our country are adopting the African traditional view; this unfortunately has resulted to untold negligence and arbitrary rejection of people with disability in our society.

The people our society regard as “disabled” should actually be seen as “physically challenged”. That in itself is the proper perception of Physical Disability. Nothing more, nothing less.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nnenna Precious Alaukwu graduated from University of Nigeria Nsukka. She was disabled as a child by poliomyelitis. Miss Alaukwu was a member of the House of Representatives of the student’s Union Government,(SUG) UNN. Assistance Secretary, Adult Education Student Association (ADESA) UNN. General Secretary, National Association of Disabled Students, UNN.

She has author six (6) motivational books. She is a speaker in Conference and Seminars in which she advocated for the rights of the disabled.

Miss Alaukwu is a proprietress of a school where she offers free education to orphans and less privilege. She has being a voice to reckon with.

Nigerian Scholarship Awards: A Tool for Education Empowerment

Nweke Prince O.

ICT/Innovation Centre,

University of Nigeria, Nsukka

What is Scholarship?

Scholarship can be defined as the creative intellectual work that is validated by peers and communicated broadly. On the other hand, Nwodo (2006), defined scholarship as the outcomes, insights, creations, and products arising from activities and creative processes that utilize the methods of inquiry and accumulated knowledge from the field of economics.

Ugwuja (2009) on his own view defined scholarship as an award of access to an institution, or a financial aid award for a student to further education. It is always awarded on various criteria usually reflecting the values and purposes of the donor or founder of the award.

Types of Scholarship

Nigerian scholarship is divided into two categories as it is been stated in the scheme. There are as follows:

(1) The National Scheme Scholarships: is type of scholarship that has to do with applicants from all over the country and is been awarded every year to winners at the National Quiz Competitions.

(2) The Operational Scheme Scholarships is the type of scholarships that deals with applicants from operational areas of the Nigeria Oil Companies, such as: Delta State, Abia State, Bayelsa State, Imo State, Rivers State and Cross River State. It is a regular scholarship that is conducted in all Nigerian University Courses, but they give preference to courses that relate to their core operations of oil exploration, oil exploitation and oil marketing.

Required Qualifications:

For any undergraduates students to be qualify for any of this schemes in Nigeria, is expected to possess at least minimum university entry requirements of WAEC, NECO, GCE or their equivalents with five (5) credits including English Language and Mathematics. The candidate must also scale through special selections of aptitude tests and interviews organized by such oil companies.

Method of Application:

Application forms are usually obtainable free of charge at any Federal University in each of the six geopolitical zone of Nigeria as well at the companies corporate headquarters after which it has been advertised in the Nigerian dailies papers every year.

Values of Nigerian Scholarship Scheme:

The scholarship covers the applicant’s tuition and boarding as well as personal maintenance allowances and other costs.

Others scholarships Bodies include:

1) Foreign Scholarship programme under Bi-lateral Education Agreement

2) Technical Teachers Training Programme Scheme sponsored by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

3) Total FINAEIF Scholarship which is tenable in France for minimum of 30 students per year in Nigerian Universities.

Below are list of scholarship awarded companies for Nigerian Undergraduate Students in both State and Federal Universities.

Name Location

a) Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) -

b) Nigerian AGIP Oil Company Ltd (NAOC) - Plot Pc23, Engineering Close,

Victoria Island – Lagos. Tel. 01- 2600100, 2600109

c) CHEVRON Nigeria Ltd. - Chevron Drive. Lekki Expressway,

P.M.M. 12825 – Lagos. Tel. 084- 2362704.

OR P.H. Plot 46, Trans Amadi

Industrial Layout – Port-Harcourt.

Tel. 01-2600600

d) MORIC Nigeria Ltd. -

e) OCEAN Energy Nigeria Ltd -

f) SHELL Petroleum Development Company - Freeman House, 21/22 – Marina.

P.O.Box 2418 – Lagos. Tel. 01-2601600, 2601820

g) TEXACO Oil Company

h) TOTAL Oil Company

i) MOBILE Producing Nigeria Unlimited - Mobile House, Lekki Expressway,

Victoria Island – Lagos. Tel. 01-2692133, 619296

j) EIF Petroleum Nigeria Ltd. - 35 Kafo Abayo,I Street, Victoria

Island – Lagos. Tel. 01-2601100, 2637875

References

………..(2004): “Nigerian oil and GAS Industry”. Publish by Nigerian National Petroleum

Cooperation Edition. Pg.5. 2004.

……….(2006): “Education Digest: Revitalizing Technical Education in Enugu State”. An

Exclusive House Journal of Enugu State Ministry of Education. Pg.4. Quarter Press Nig. Ltd. Enugu State.

Personal Business: How to Establish and Operate in Future

Nweke Prince O.

ICT/Innovation Centre

University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Definition of Business?

From the general definition, one can define business as an organization own by a

personor many person whose main aim is to produced, buys and sells of goods and services for the satisfaction of human wants and to make profit. In other words, a business is a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it. Onyeke (2006) defined business as a “commercial enterprise: the activity of providing goods and services involving financial, commercial and industrial aspects"

On the other hand, personal business can otherwise know as personal occupation,

trade, Job or profession in which he engaged himself in other to earn a living. It is as well known as personal matters concern".

Eleven Benefits/importance of Personal Business Ventures

 The owner of such business is known as “MD” which stands for “Managing Director” or “CEO” known as “Chief Executive Officer”

 He stands the chance to enjoy his profit alone a sole owner of the business.

 He has a complete freedom to operate as when needed or wanted.

 He acts as the sole owner or manger of the business.

 He does not share his profit with anybody except where there is existence of partnership or joint stock ventures which goes with agreement.

 He maintains cordial relationship with his customers.

 He takes his decisions alone.

 He does not require ay formality before establishing his business.

 He can easily switch over to another business of his choice.

 He can easily meet the demand of his customers no matter how small the request may be.

 It is easy to start and operate with any little amount of capital available at hand.

Five Problems Encountered in Personal business Ventures

 The death of the owner may lead to the end of the business.

 Lack of mismanagement may bring about lack of continuity.

 Lack of efficient capital may bring about inability to face marketing competition.

 Lack of capital and bad staff recruitment may bring about unlimited expansion of the business.

 The owner bears his risks and losses alone.

Seven Factor that Leads to Failure of many Business Ventures today in Nigeria

 Too much excessive spending either for the family issues or business affairs.

 Wrong purchases of goods and services from the producer’s or suppliers.

 Lack of experience and knowledge of the business.

 Lack of good methods of advertisement.

 Too much credit facilities to untrust worthy customers.

 Lack of proper statement of account by the recruited sale girls or sale boys.

 Lack of book of account mostly on daily basis, such as: daily sales book, credit book, purchase daybook etc.

Ten Factors to be considered before establishing a business Ventures

 The amount of capital available.

 The number of workers to be employed.

 The method of establishment.

 The source of capital of the business.

 The nature of the business.

 The location of the business (which is very much important).

 The knowledge and experience of the business.

 The name of the business.

 The source of supply, distribution and advertisement.

 The quality, quantity and price impose on the goods or services to render to the members of the public.