The Challenges Faced by Youths in Accessing and Benefiting from Entrepreneurship Skill-Acquisition Programmes in Southern Senatorial District, of Taraba State

This study investigates the challenges faced by youths in accessing and benefiting from entrepreneurship skill-acquisition programmes in Southern Senatorial District, Taraba State. Although such programmes are widely promoted as tools for youth empowerment, many beneficiaries encounter barriers that limit their full participation and post-training impact. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 384 respondents across Donga, Takum, and Wukari Local Government Areas. Findings revealed that financial constraints, poor programme awareness, and long travel distances were major access barriers. Among those who participated, challenges included inadequate training materials, absence of mentorship, and lack of start-up capital. These findings support the Social Exclusion Theory, which highlights the role of systemic and structural barriers in perpetuating marginalisation. The study concludes that entrepreneurship programmes must go beyond enrolment figures to address both access and benefit gaps if they are to promote inclusive youth development. It recommends decentralised delivery, improved outreach, and robust post-training support as strategies to enhance programme effectiveness in rural and underserved settings.