UNICEF, GenU Hail Yabatech for Training Girls

The Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) of Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) has earned international commendation from UNICEF and Generation Unlimited, with both organisations pledging to support the training of an additional one million girls across Nigeria.

Deputy Registrar of the college, Mr. Adekunle Adams, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the commendation followed a visit to the institution by a high-level delegation from UNICEF and Generation Unlimited, New York.

The delegation, led by Generation Unlimited CEO, Mr. Kevin Frey, included Global Partnerships Lead, Ms. Iliana Albino; UNICEF Nigeria Chief of Education, Ms. Vanessa Lee; and UNICEF Chief Field Officer and Lead, GenU 9JA, Ms. Celine Lafoucriere.

After touring GESP facilities, Frey described the programme as “nothing short of transformative,” stressing that the beneficiaries were innovators and future leaders.

Lafoucriere also hailed GESP as life-changing, while Albino said the initiative had set a global benchmark in skills training.

Yabatech’s Deputy Rector (Administration), Mr. Femi Lawal, who received the team on behalf of the Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, said the institution was proud to host a programme that empowers young women.

GESP Project Coordinator, Dr. Funmilayo Doherty, explained that the initiative is in its third phase, training girls in web and mobile application development, GSM/phone repair, and computer maintenance, with outstanding graduates receiving start-up kits.

Adams added that the trainees testified to gaining confidence, practical skills, and vision to start businesses and contribute to their communities.

Punch