20,000 NJFP: FG, UNDP commences recruitment exercise
by Chima Azubuike
The Federal Government and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from European Union on Monday, commenced the recruitment of 20,000 graduates into private and public sectors nationwide
The partnership is under the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme NJFP, aimed at empowering talents in Nigeria, opportunities provided are expected to address the unemployment challenges in the country.
According to a press statement by the Acting head of Communications UNDP Nigeria, Alison Clement, said the NJFP would provide 20,000 young Nigerian graduates annually with year long job placement opportunities in both public and private sector across the country.
She said, “The NJFP aims to champion homegrown Nigerian talent and opportunities by creating a channel between graduates and industry, to help address the employment gap by identifying the emerging skills that companies need most, while guiding graduates to be more prepared for a constantly evolving work environment.
“The long-term goal of the programme is to create opportunities where Fellows can play a meaningful part in growing the private and public sector while contributing towards the future of Nigeria.
“Applications will be open on the NJFP website application portal for a duration of six weeks, from 6 September 2021 to 18 October 2021. The application process from submission to selection, including matching to host organizations, is expected to last 12 weeks.
“To qualify as a fellow, applicants must be a fresh Nigeriangraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) from any discipline and must have graduated with at least a Second Class Lower (2.2) and above. Prospective fellows also must be at most 30 years old and have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or have a certificate of exemption.
“Interested private and public sector organizations must submit an official letter of interest, outlining their commitment to supporting the programme by accepting fellow placements. Among other requirements, organizations will also be asked to provide mentorship support to Fellows.”
While assuring of transparency, Clement called on potential host organizations to express interest by submitting their application through the online portal, stressing that an independent management company would review the process.
“The selection process will be transparent and inclusive. Prospective fellows are to submit an application electronically against the criteria through the application portal.
“Once applications close, an independent talent management company will review submissions and produce a long list of applicants that will proceed to the next stage of the selection process. Long listed candidates will then undergo a series of aptitude tests and assessments before the final selection is made.
“Host organizations that meet the eligibility requirements will be put into a database in readiness for matching with pre-qualified fellows. The talent needs of host organizations will be determined through the application and the placement cycle will be a collaborative process between the NJFP and successful organizations to ensure industry needs align to the needs of the Fellow,” she added.
