Yabatech’s Girls’ Skills Initiative Receives Global Recognition, Aims to Empower One Million Girls
By DAYO ADESULU
Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) has garnered international acclaim for its innovative Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP), with UNICEF and Generation Unlimited lauding the program as a model for unlocking the potential of young women. The initiative now aims to expand its reach by training an additional one million girls.
The recognition came during a high-level visit from senior officials representing both organizations. They praised Yabatech’s commitment to serving as a hub for equipping girls with essential skills in technology and entrepreneurship. The delegation was led by Kevin Frey, CEO of Generation Unlimited, and included notable figures such as Iliana Albino, Global Partnerships Lead at Generation Unlimited; Vanessa Lee, Chief of Education at UNICEF Nigeria; and Celine Lafoucriere, UNICEF’s Chief Field Officer and Lead, GenU 9JA. They were welcomed by Arc. Femi Lawal, Deputy Rector (Administration), who stood in for Rector Dr. Ibraheem Abdul.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Funmilayo Doherty, GESP Project Coordinator, revealed that the program is currently in its third phase, training a new cohort of girls in four key skill areas: Web Application Development, Mobile Application Development, GSM and Phone Repair, and Computer Repair and Maintenance. She announced that startup kits were awarded to outstanding graduates from previous cohorts to help them establish their own businesses.
Dr. Doherty emphasized that the program is not just about training young women but also about providing them with the necessary tools for independence. “This would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors, whom we sincerely thank for their steadfast partnership,” she stated.
Kevin Frey, CEO of Generation Unlimited, expressed admiration for the energy and creativity displayed by the participants. “What we have witnessed here is nothing short of transformative. These young women are not merely learners; they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and future leaders. Their resilience underscores that investing in girls is one of the most astute decisions any society can make,” he affirmed.
Echoing this sentiment, Iliana Albino highlighted the broader implications of the initiative, stating, “Yabatech has set a strong precedent for how local institutions can create global impact. By equipping girls with skills that open doors, you are not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to stronger economies and more inclusive societies.” She expressed strong support for the initiative’s goal of training one million girls.
Celine Lafoucriere, UNICEF’s Chief Field Officer for Lagos, described the program as a transformative experience. “The testimonies we have heard today are powerful. These girls are forging bold new paths because someone believed in them. UNICEF is proud to be part of this journey and is dedicated to expanding opportunities for young women,” she noted.
Arc. Femi Lawal commended UNICEF and Generation Unlimited for selecting Yabatech as a partner and training hub. “We take pride in our institution serving as a platform for this transformative initiative. Yabatech has always been a center for innovation and technical excellence, and we are thrilled to see our facilities and expertise being utilized to empower young women from across the community, Lagos, and the entire country. This partnership reflects our broader commitment to nation-building through education and skills,” he stated.
During the visit, the delegation toured the training facilities and engaged with beneficiaries, many of whom shared heartfelt testimonials. The participants expressed gratitude to Yabatech, UNICEF, and Generation Unlimited, noting that the program has prepared them to reach new heights. Several girls shared how the training has instilled confidence, skills, and a clear vision to build careers, launch businesses, and contribute to their communities.
Photo caption: Cross view of the delegation from Unicef and Generation Unlimited led by its Chief Executive Officer , Kevin Grey (bent in the middle) with officials of Yabatech in the midst of Yabatech’s GESP beneficiaries in display of their acquired skills to the delegation on laptop and phones repair during an on the spot assessment of the Project in the college.
