UNICEF Issues Urgent Warning to MasterCrafts on Rising Sexual Harassment Concerns

Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) and United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) have warned the mastercrafts, skilled workers and trainees on zero-tolerance for sexual harassment,  exploitation and abuse on the training of 5,250 girls and young women in Lagos State.

The warning was given at  a two day induction workshop for Technical and Vocation Education Training (TVET) Trainers and skilled workers organized by Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP), Unicef in collaboration with YABATECH.

In her welcome address, the Project Coordinator, Dr. Funmilayo Doherty disclosed that “the purpose of the induction workshop for the TVET trainers and skilled workers is to provide an in-depth orientation to all participants, outlining the project’s objectives, scope, and expected outcomes.

This workshop aims to emphasize and raise awareness about the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, and educate participants on YABATECH’s policies regarding sexual harassment and gender-based violence.

It seeks to enhance the skills and knowledge of TVET trainers and skilled workers on competency-based training, and assessment”.

She was delighted to welcome the participants to the induction workshop and elated to see dedicated and enthusiastic group of TVET trainers and skilled workers, and extended her heartfelt gratitude to partners from United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), and all  esteemed collaborators Computer and Telecommunication Engineering Association of Nigeria(COMTEAN), International Network for Advancing Science and Policy (INASP), and facilitators, and was grateful for their invaluable contributions.

Doherty explained that this project is about more than just providing skills; it is about empowering young women to overcome barriers and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Nigeria, as the most populous country in Africa, faces unique challenges in delivering quality education and skills development opportunities. With a growing population and an urgent need for market-relevant skills, especially in the ICT sector, and the mission is more critical than ever.

She noted that Education and training in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields and TVET are pivotal in addressing the employment gap and fostering economic growth.

The project coordinator acknowledged the gender disparities that persist in these fields, and the project aims to tackle these issues headlong by providing gender-responsive pedagogy, inclusive learning environments, and industry-relevant training to 5,250 girls and young women.

 The executive secretary of National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris Bugaje in his address showered encomium on Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) for being passionate about skills development and entrepreneurship.

Prof. Bugaje, who  was ably represented by the NBTE South-West Zonal  Director, Mr. Ayo Aroge said that Yabatech is fond of organizing several programs to promote skills development and always in support of anything that has to do with the advancement of skills.

He congratulated the management for being consistent in preaching the gospel of skills development, and was pleased with the College for aligning itself with the vision and mission of NBTE, eulogizing the institution for hosting the workshop of this magnitude for the benefits of mankind and the country at large.

The College Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul hinted in his speech that the collaboration with UNICEF and other stakeholders underscores the shared commitment to addressing the educational and employment challenges faced by young women in Nigeria, and the GESP project is not just about imparting technical skills, it is about creating opportunities, fostering independence, and driving societal change.

According to him, “at YABATECH, we are deeply committed to the success of this project. Our institution has always been at the forefront of educational innovation and community engagement, and the GESP project aligns perfectly with our mission to provide inclusive and high-quality education.

We have invested considerable resources and expertise to ensure that this initiative not only meets but exceeds its goals. Our commitment is reflected in our efforts to create a supportive and safe learning environment, implement gender-responsive curricula, and foster industry partnerships that enhance the employability of our graduates”.

The rector affirmed that in the College will engage in a comprehensive program designed to enhance the capabilities of TVET trainers and skilled workers.

The workshop, Dr. Abdul added, will cover critical aspects such as gender-responsive pedagogy, the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, and the importance of a safe and inclusive learning environment.

These elements are crucial for the success of our mission and for ensuring that our trainees receive the best possible support and education.

“As we embark on this journey together, let us remain focused on our goal: to equip young women with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the modern workforce. By doing so, we are not only enhancing their individual futures but also contributing to the broader development and prosperity of our society. I am confident that this workshop will be a productive and enlightening experience for all of us”.

In the course of the workshop Chief Protection Specialist and Focal Person UNICEF Lagos Field Officer, Mr. Dennis Onoise delivered a lecture titled “Basic Awareness on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse.

Other papers presented on the first day of the workshop were Overview of YABATECH Sexual Harassment and Forms of Gender-Based Violence Prohibition Policy”; “Importance of Addressing Sexual Harassment in Education Settings, and finally a lecture titled “Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria.