Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) and Youth Employment in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria (2012-2014)

Abstract

The study investigated the relationship between the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) and youth employment in Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the Graduate Internship Scheme (GIS) and Vocational Skills Training Scheme (VSTS) of SURE-P in relation to youth employment. The institutional theory (IT) by Scott (2001) served as the theoretical framework for the study. Data were gathered from both primary and secondary sources. The study employed simple random sampling and systematic sampling techniques in the selection of 400 respondents. A 26-item questionnaire titled "Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) and Youth Employment" was utilized to collect data. Statistical analysis was conducted using the chi-square statistical tool. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested at a significance level of 0.05, with a degree of freedom of 3. The findings revealed that the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), specifically through the Graduate Internship Scheme (GIS) and Vocational Skills Training Scheme (VSTS), played a significant role in employment and job creation among youths in Calabar Metropolis. Based on the results, it was recommended, among other things, that the current administration should revitalize the SURE-P program and allocate sufficient funds to enhance participation, thereby promoting increased employability and job opportunities.