Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: Furniture Swapping For Youth Empowerment Through TVET And Circular Economy In Nigeria
by Toriola-Coker, O. L, Ayodele-Oja, S, Shittu-Igbodike, J,

Abstract:
This study investigates furniture swapping as a novel way to youth empowerment through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria, using Jaebee Furniture as a case study. In light of rising youth unemployment and increasing environmental challenges, the study investigates how the principles of Zero Waste (ZW) and Circular Economy (CE) might be integrated into vocational skills training. Jaebee Furniture, a local firm that specializes in sustainable furniture design and reuse, acts as a model for displaying how unwanted or unused furniture may be converted into valuable items while providing young people with job skills. The study uses in-depth interviews to demonstrate the potential of furniture swapping to encourage skill learning, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. The findings imply that incorporating furniture swapping into TVET curricula might minimize waste, promote green innovation, and generate long-term income-generating opportunities for Nigerian adolescents. The report closes by suggesting legislative support, institutional collaborations, and scalable frameworks for integrating furniture swapping as a viable instrument for youth empowerment and circular economy development in Nigeria.

Keywords: Circular Economy, Furniture Swapping, TVET, Youth Empowerment, and Zero Waste

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