(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Surep-logo-300x157.jpg) In a bid to actualize the administrative decision of the Federal government to move the Community Services Scheme (CSS), an arm of the Community Services, Women and Youth Empowerment Project (CSWYE) from the Federal Ministry of Finance to the Federal Ministry of Labour, a formal handing ceremony was conducted on Monday, 8th April, 2013 at the Conference Room of the Federal Ministry of Labour.
In a speech at the occasion, the Project Director of the CSWYE, Mr. Peter Papka recalled that the CSWYE project was initiated at the Ministry of Labour while elaboration of concept, project design and implementation was done at the Federal Ministry of Finance. He said the project was initiated under the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) to ensure that the weakest and the most vulnerable citizens benefitted from the proceeds of the withdrawal of fuel subsidy, which was effected early last year. It was also targeted at reducing the unacceptable level of youth unemployment through the provision of temporary labour-intensive workfare for unskilled and semi-skilled youths.
Speaking on the objectives of the CSS, Mr. Papka said communities were involved in the selection of beneficiaries and were empowered to identify which economic, infrastructural and service areas the beneficiaries are to serve in their communities. In a bid to ensure even spread, 30% of the slots are to go to women, while 20% are to go to other vulnerable groups including the physically challenged.
"So far, out of the 185,000 earmarked to be engaged this year, 120,000 have already been engaged with their biometric data and pictures captured, bank accounts opened and transactions commenced. It is noteworthy that all transactions are done directly with the beneficiaries while supervisors are only expected to ensure that beneficiaries work for the stipulated hours to earn their pay" said, Mr. Papka.
Suggesting the way forward for the project, the Director urged for the establishment of a proper institutional arrangement to strengthen the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), especially with a strong and well staffed Monitoring and Evaluation unit. He also called for the development of a performance contract with the state offices of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) to ensure timely delivery.
Mr. Papka used the occasion to express his association with the project as unforgettable and called on the new PIU to connect with him whenever they need his counsel.
In his response, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour, represented by the Director, Human Resources, Mr. James Oguche thanked Mr. Papka for the service he has rendered to the project and promised that the Ministry will make a success out of the project.
Directors and officials of both Ministries were present at the event.
Via: Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria