Youth Building at Wilberforce: NYA's Role at Wilberforce University

This silent film documents the National Youth Administration (NYA) activities at Wilberforce University in Ohio, focusing on the work experience center established there. The footage showcases a variety of educational and vocational training programs designed to equip young African Americans with practical skills for employment and personal development.

It includes scenes of classes in woodwork, where students are seen crafting various items, demonstrating carpentry skills.
Metal crafts and machine shop operations are also depicted, showing students engaged with tools and machinery to learn metalworking and mechanical engineering basics.
The film captures cooking classes, highlighting culinary arts education, which was essential for both personal life and potential careers in hospitality.
Typesetting classes are shown, indicating training in print media and communication, preparing students for roles in journalism or publishing.
A significant part of the film is dedicated to Negro youths involved in the hands-on process of brick-making, from molding to firing bricks. These bricks are then used in the construction of a field house on campus, symbolizing their direct contribution to the university's infrastructure.

"Youth Building at Wilberforce" not only illustrates the NYA's commitment to vocational education but also celebrates the empowerment and community development through practical skills training at one of America's historic black colleges.