By Hon. Commissioner For Youth Affairs
April 5, 2025
The Honourable Commissioner for Youth Affairs in Osun State has noted the recent political criticisms directed at the deployment of Imole Youth Corps beneficiaries to schools, particularly by Mr. John Oyebamiji, a politician also identify himself as a clergy.
It is important to clarify that the Ministry of Youth Affairs has already provided clear guidance to Mr. Oyebamiji regarding the operational framework of the Imole Youth Corps initiative. This program, aimed at addressing unemployment, selects beneficiaries based on their qualifications, ensuring that graduates with backgrounds in education from Colleges of Education and Universities are deployed to schools.
Mr. Oyebamiji's claims, which seem to be based on misunderstanding, are unfounded, especially considering the current reality where graduates are increasingly present in every household across the state.
The Imole Youth Corps initiative is a collaborative program, not confined to the Ministry of Youth Affairs alone. The Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Environment also played key roles in the recruitment process, with representatives from these ministries actively involved. Beneficiaries with NCE, Bsc. Ed, B.ed and M.ed were given orientation by the representatives of the Ministry of Education before deployment.
The IMOLE YOUTH CORPS scheme to deploy educational experts to schools is rooted in the recognition of the potential of youth to contribute positively to society. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Education collaborated to align educational placements with the qualifications of beneficiaries. This strategic deployment is intended to ensure that youth are not only adequately qualified for their roles, but are also passionate about contributing to the educational framework. By doing so, the ministries can improve the quality of education provided to students, as qualified individuals bring fresh insights and effective teaching methodologies into classrooms.
The Ministry of Education conducted seminars to beneficiaries deployed to school and more seminars will still occur because seminars serve as a crucial platform for education beneficiaries to gain relevant skills and knowledge that enhance their teaching abilities. The initial seminar organized by the Ministry of Education was aimed at equipping beneficiaries with pedagogical skills, innovative teaching practices, and an understanding of the educational curriculum. This initiative helped in setting high expectations for educational standards while fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional development.
The involvement of the Ministry of Education in the process cannot be overstated. As the agency responsible for overseeing educational policies and practices, its role is fundamental in determining the qualifications necessary for placement in schools. The Ministry ensures that the deployment stays true to educational standards, balancing the needs of the schools with the qualifications of the individuals. By being fully engaged, the Ministry of Education reinforces the integrity of the scheme, making certain that political influences do not compromise the quality of education.
The partnership between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Ministry of Education represents a formidable commitment to enhancing education and empowering youth within the state.
The Honourable Commissioner calls on the people of Osun State to continue their support for the administration and encourages all Imole Youth Corps beneficiaries to stay focused and committed to their roles, despite any attempts to distract them from their vital work.
Signed:
Hon. Olagunju Moshood Olalekan
Honourable, Commissioner for Youth Affairs,
Ministry of Youth Affairs, Osun State