By Sophia Nkiru
Nestlé’s beverage brands have played a pivotal role in youth empowerment and development through a combination of education, skill-building, entrepreneurship support, and involvement in sustainability efforts. By providing young people with opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and skills development, as well as engaging them in health, sustainability, and innovation initiatives, Nestlé is helping to create a generation of empowered young individuals who are better equipped to face future challenges. These efforts not only support the development of youth but also contribute to building a more sustainable and inclusive global economy.
Nestlé Nigeria has been actively involved in various youth empowerment and development initiatives, focusing on skills training, entrepreneurship, and educational programs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key ways Nestlé Nigeria has contributed to youth empowerment and development:
YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMMES
In collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Nestlé Nigeria has established a technical skills development program that offers young Nigerians training in areas like machining, welding, and industrial automation. This program is aimed at empowering young people with technical skills to improve their employability in the manufacturing sector. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on practical experience, producing graduates who are often employed by Nestlé Nigeria or other manufacturing companies.
Nestlé Nigeria has also focused on agricultural development, training young farmers in modern and sustainable farming practices. Through partnerships with various organizations, Nestlé provides support to young farmers to improve crop yields and manage farms sustainably. This contributes to creating job opportunities in agriculture and encouraging youth engagement in the sector.
Nestlé Nigeria has taken steps to specifically support young women entrepreneurs, through partnerships and programs designed to help women set up small businesses. They work with young women in different communities, particularly in areas where access to resources and education is limited, helping them gain business skills and financial literacy.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Part of a global initiative, Nestlé Needs Youth focuses on helping young people gain skills through education, apprenticeships, and internships. In Nigeria, this program offers young people the chance to learn about the food and beverage industry, develop soft skills, and gain work experience through internships and apprenticeships.
In collaboration with academic institutions, Nestlé Nigeria has supported scholarships and bursary programs aimed at underprivileged youth. They also sponsor science and technology-focused programs and competitions that encourage innovation and problem-solving skills among young students, fostering interest in fields that can lead to long-term career opportunities.
Nestlé Nigeria trains young people in sales and distribution to help them understand market needs and product distribution. This program is essential for youths interested in careers in sales, marketing, and distribution, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Graduates of the program are often absorbed into Nestlé’s workforce or gain roles in similar companies.
Recognizing the importance of digital skills, Nestlé Nigeria provides training in digital literacy, focusing on areas such as digital marketing, social media management, and data analysis. These skills are essential in today’s job market and provide young people with the capabilities to start their own digital businesses or secure digital roles within companies.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAMMES
Nestlé Nigeria has integrated health and wellness programs into its youth development initiatives, educating young people about nutrition and healthy lifestyles. This knowledge is crucial for empowering youths to make informed choices, and Nestlé has implemented programs in schools and communities to promote these ideas.
Nestlé Nigeria often works in schools to provide nutrition education, aiming to reduce malnutrition and raise awareness about healthy eating habits. These initiatives not only help students make better personal choices but also encourage them to pursue health-related careers or initiatives in their communities.
PARTNERSHIPS WITH GOVERNMENT AND NGOS
Nestlé Nigeria collaborates with government agencies and NGOs to scale up its youth development programs and expand reach across the country. By partnering with organizations like NECA and various NGOs focused on youth development, Nestlé amplifies the impact of its programs and ensures sustainability in different regions.
Nestlé has actively pursued partnerships with technical and vocational education institutions to develop curricula that align with industry needs. These collaborations ensure that young people are equipped with skills that match labor market demands, improving their job prospects upon graduation.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AWARENESS PROGRAMS
Nestlé integrates sustainability into its youth training by teaching young people about responsible practices, such as waste management and recycling. This awareness equips youth with knowledge to participate in environmentally-friendly practices, which is increasingly important in today’s job market, especially in companies with a strong sustainability focus.
Nestlé Nigeria is also involved in projects that provide access to clean water and sanitation facilities in schools. This not only improves the learning environment but also fosters awareness among youth about the importance of environmental and public health initiatives.
Nestlé Nigeria’s initiatives have positively impacted the lives of thousands of young Nigerians, providing them with skills that boost employability, opportunities for entrepreneurship, and pathways to sustainable careers. By offering diverse programs, Nestlé is addressing various needs across different sectors, from manufacturing to agriculture, and from digital literacy to environmental stewardship. This holistic approach is contributing to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and social progress in Nigeria.
In sum, Nestlé Nigeria’s youth empowerment and development efforts demonstrate a commitment to creating a sustainable future for young Nigerians by providing them with the tools, skills, and opportunities necessary to thrive in a competitive and dynamic economy.
Here’s a story on Nestlé Nigeria’s youth empowerment and development activities:
Nestlé Nigeria has been at the forefront of youth empowerment and development in the country, investing heavily in initiatives that equip young Nigerians with essential skills, knowledge, and resources. For over 60 years, Nestlé has demonstrated its commitment to creating shared value for both business and society.
NESTLÉ YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (NYEP)
Launched in 2011, NYEP aims to provide vocational training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support to young Nigerians. The program focuses on. Agriculture and food processing, entrepreneurship and business management, Leadership and life skills.Over 5,000 youths have benefited from NYEP, with 70% securing employment or starting their own businesses.
Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to youth empowerment and development is transforming lives, fostering economic growth, and contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. By investing in the next generation, Nestlé is ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria.
