Unemployment has become a major issue in society today, posing a serious and growing global problem with significant economic and social consequences. Factors like automation, global competition, economic instability, and, in some regions, inadequate education and skill mismatches are leaving millions of people without work. Youth and marginalized communities are particularly affected, facing high entry barriers and limited job opportunities. Long-term unemployment leads to poverty, social unrest, and mental health issues. Governments and organizations are under pressure to create job opportunities, promote skill training, and build a more resilient and inclusive job market to effectively address this crisis.
What should the government do to solve unemployment? First, vacancies should be filled. Although government jobs are limited, at the very least, open positions should be filled. From schools to courts, police departments to ministries, there are vacancies in various sectors. Second, the focus on education is essential. Government schools, colleges, and institutions need improved infrastructure, and new educational institutions must be set up in various regions to increase available seats. Many aspire to be engineers and doctors, and while there is a shortage of these professionals, the lack of institutions limits opportunities to meet this demand. Third, the government should take widespread action to encourage cooperative and small-scale enterprises. While towns like Dimapur and Kohima have moderately stable economies, remote districts have limited job opportunities. Poor communities shouldn’t have to wait in the hope that a wealthy entrepreneur will set up factories to provide jobs. This mindset must shift. Government intervention is necessary here. Although loans are provided, the government should also supply means of production, storage facilities, and market mechanisms. When America faced the Great Depression in 1929 or Singapore its slum-like conditions in the 1960s, all of these were only resolved with government intervention. It’s challenging to make progress without government action. Fourth, people shouldn’t just wait for the government; they can begin working toward a solution now.
What should unemployed individuals do to address the unemployment problem? First, remove distractions, such as deleting gambling apps, as they waste valuable and productive time. Recognize that, regardless of the availability of government or private jobs, you have to take initiative. Second, learn a skill—any skill. For instance, you could learn to cook, and eventually start a cloud kitchen or catering service from home. You could provide tiffin services, bake cakes, or set up a stall for food and drinks or Chow and Momo stall. If starting a business seems daunting, you can work for someone else, like assisting a salesperson or learning jewellery design or handicrafts. Rather than spending time on social media or gaming, observe the variety of jobs people around you are doing. No work is insignificant if done with dedication. With sincerity, you’ll gain skills and confidence, enabling you to start something independently. But you must take the first step. Start by learning any skill you can, and even if the pay is initially low, treat it as an internship for a few months.
Thsachoba TS