Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos has partnered with UNICEF to launch an initiative aimed at empowering one million Nigerian girls with vital educational skills through the Girls’ Education Skills and Partnership program.
During the opening of a five-day workshop sponsored by UNICEF and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, YABATECH’s Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, announced that the college will specifically empower 5,000 girls in Lagos State. The program aims to enhance economic opportunities for adolescent girls and young women, aiding them in becoming employable, entrepreneurial, and adept in information and communication technology. Dr. Abdul emphasized that the initiative will focus on providing sustainable livelihood training and essential skills for better employment prospects.
The rector emphasized that empowering girls with ICT skills goes beyond bridging the gender gap; it equips them with essential tools for a sustainable future. He affirmed YABATECH’s commitment to preparing students for success in the rapidly changing digital world.
He noted that YABATECH is at the forefront of the National Skills Qualification Framework by aiming to train 5,000 women in profitable skills acquisition. This workshop is the college’s first focused specifically on girls’ empowerment, and he highlighted the importance of providing a supportive environment for skill development, assuring that the college has the resources necessary for the workshop’s success.
The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, represented by Mr. Ayo Aroge, commended YABATECH for its dedication to technical skills development in Nigeria. He emphasized that Nigeria’s future depends on the quality of education provided to its youth, making initiatives like this crucial for staying competitive in the global economy.
Dr. Funmilayo Doherty, the project coordinator, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and FCDO for their support in making the workshop possible, highlighting their contribution to the successful commencement of the event.