Human Capital Development Among Nigerian Youths and Gender Issues: A Critical Assessment

Abstract

This article centers on the prospect of human capital development which hinge on the Nigerian government to see to the training of the youths which will attract scientific breakthrough and further improve the Nigerian economy.  The developed countries are aware of the diverse benefits when their youths are being trained to sustain the gains of human capital development and bequeath it to the unborn generation. This development can be achieved if the Nigerian government pays adequate attention in making sure the youth have access to quality education where youths from indigent backgrounds can easily access scholarships and equal opportunities. Nigerian youth can thrive in any environment where meritocracy leads. This is visible in the music industry where Nigerian youths are showcasing Nigerian music on the global stage with   Grammy Awards to their credits. This can also be seen among Nigerian students coming top in their various academic programmes in foreign universities. Same in the movie industry. The demand for Nigerian doctors, nurses, and other professionals who are youths in foreign countries is on the rise on daily basis, making the country suffer inadequacy or quackery due to brain drain. The role of the government is key in addressing the issues that bother human capital development and gender issues. Discrimination among the female folk is a bane to human capital development which can amount to the throwing of a spanner in the wheel of the country's progress. A reorientation of core values, a robust economy, and a conducive atmosphere driven by merit can see Nigeria on top of the world which will reflect in the country's growth and development.

Keywords: Human Capital Development, Quality Education, Nigerian Youths, Gender Issues, Merit system