From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
A group of Nigerian women under the auspices of Women In Technical Education and Development (WITED), Kaduna Polytechnic chapter, has taken some steps to checkmate mass migration, otherwise known as ‘japa’ of Nigerian youths and professionals to overseas in search of greener pastures even at the risk of their lives.
WITED was set up in 1988 by the CommonWealth Association of Polytechnics in Africa (CAPA) with the main objective of enhancing the participation of women in technical education.
In her opening address at the 4th National Conference of WITED with the theme, “Japa Syndrome: Implications for National Development,” the Coordinator, Kaduna Polytechnic chapter, Comfort Mado-Alabi, expressed concern over increasing migration of youths and professionals seeking greener pastures abroad, adding that it was a challenge that women in technical education must confront head-on.
Alabi, however, noted that the Japa syndrome is driven by economic hardship, insecurity, and political instability, which are threatening national development, and called for solutions to it.
She said: “It is my great honour and privilege to address you all today as we gather to discuss a matter of utmost importance: the ‘Japa’ syndrome, and its profound implications for national development.
“Our theme for this conference, ‘Japa Syndrome: Implications for National Development,’ addresses a critical issue that affects us all. The increasing trend of our talented youths and professionals seeking opportunities abroad is a challenge we must confront head-on.
“This exodus, driven by economic hardship, insecurity, and political instability, threatens to undermine our national development and the future of our country. Today, we are not just here to discuss the causes and consequences of the ‘Japa’ syndrome, but to seek actionable solutions. We must explore ways to create an environment where our citizens can thrive and realise their potential right here in Nigeria.
“We must address the root causes and find innovative strategies to retain and attract our talent. As the Coordinator of WITED, I am committed to ensuring that women play a pivotal role in this transformation.
“By empowering women in technical fields, we can harness the full potential of our population and drive national development forward. Let us use this conference as a platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic partnerships, and practical solutions. Together, we can turn the tide on the ‘Japa’ syndrome and build a brighter future for Nigeria.
Shortly before she declared the conference opened, the President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Margaret Aina Oguntala, who was represented by Rachel Serumun Ugye noted that, ‘Japa’ in our local parlance refers to the emigration of our talented and skilled workforce in search of better opportunities in other countries of the world. This trend, while offering individual advancement, poses significant challenges to our collective aspiration for national development.
“Our nation’s progress is fundamentally tied to the retention and utilisation of our human capital, which is why the NSE has over the years emphasised on local content policy. The migration of our best minds painfully results in a depletion of the intellectual and technical resources essential for sustainable development.
“Moreover, the discussions we are set to engage in today will also touch on the increasing insecurity, and the declining economic conditions that many Nigerians face. These are complex issues that intertwine with the ‘Japa’ syndrome, creating a cycle of challenges that require comprehensive and strategic solutions.”
Earlier in his speech, the Rector, Kaduna Polytechnic, Dr. Umar Suleiman, who was the chief of the event, explained that, “Technical, technology, and vocational education plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges.
It equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and foster sustainable development.
“This conference provides an invaluable platform for sharing insights, strategies, and best practices. It is an opportunity for us to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore innovative solutions, and forge partnerships that will strengthen our technical education sector.
“By doing so, we can create an environment where our graduates feel empowered to thrive within Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s progress and prosperity.
“As we embark on these discussions, let us remain focused on our shared goal: fostering a Nigeria where opportunities abound, talents are nurtured, and every individual accorded the chance to exercise potential to contribute to our nation’s collective development.
“Together, we can turn the tide on the Japa syndrome and build a nation that not only retains its talents but also thrives on their contributions.”
Highlights of the conference was the launching of the maiden edition of WITED news magazine with its cover story, ‘Japa Syndrome.’