DEAR Editor,-
It is a concern to see so many of our fathers and economically active men unemployed and many making every attempt to find work and provide for their families.
Indeed it is ‘abnormal’ for them not to be providers for their families. They respond to this abnormal situation by braving the heat, cold, rain, storms and forsake any pride to take up any job just to fulfil their God-ordained responsibilities to provide for their loved ones.
Let us respond constructively to their normal instincts as providers of their homes. I suggest the Department of Labour, in conjunction with organised business and the local Chamber of Business, develop satellite centres in strategic places in our district, where our unemployed men could gather daily and where prospective employers could seek their services and draw labour accordingly.
A central database on skills and experience and other details can be maintained. Local NGOs, FBOs, and so forth, can assist to provide refreshments to these men daily through a coordinated programme (as some of these men stay whole days, or a whole week without a job). Our church will be willing to assist here.
These centres can also act as empowerment centres, where those with no skills and those entering the world of employment can be selected for training of skills in their field of interest. In this way, the Skills Development Fund can best be put to use. Other sectors like health could provide health promotion for them. Let us restore the dignity of men in our families.
PS VEERAN CHETTY
Sanctuary Community Church, Tweni
