UNICEF, Generation Unlimited (GenU), and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) have launched a Girls Education Skills Programme (GESP) to provide skill-building opportunities for young women in Nigeria. The initiative, hosted at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) and Computer Village, Ikeja, aims to empower one million girls aged 13 to 24 with market-relevant skills.
Skills Development for Sustainable Livelihoods
The programme equips participants with skills such as mobile and web app development, computer repair, and mobile phone maintenance. According to Urmila Sarkar, Principal Adviser at GenU, the programme ensures young women gain access to opportunities necessary for sustainable livelihoods. Sarkar emphasized that equal access to skills and education is crucial for Nigeria’s progress.
Bridging Gender Gaps
Sarkar explained that young women face significant barriers, including limited access to education, community restrictions, and lack of information. UNICEF and its partners aim to break these barriers by fostering gender-inclusive opportunities. She highlighted the importance of addressing unemployment and the skills gap to reduce socio-economic inequalities.
UK Government’s Commitment
Phoebe Hill, Team Leader at FCDO, reaffirmed the UK government’s support for initiatives that improve girls’ education and skills. She praised YABATECH’s implementation of GESP, emphasizing its dedication to empowering young women. Hill noted that UNICEF will assess the project’s impact in three months to ensure sustained progress.
YABATECH’s Role in Empowerment
Dr. Abdul Ibraheem, Rector of YABATECH, expressed optimism about expanding the initiative beyond ICT. He emphasized the importance of gender-responsive training and the need for students to transition from learning to earning. Dr. Ibraheem highlighted the practical experience gained by participants during visits to Computer Village.
Conclusion
The UNICEF-led Girls Education Skills Programme reflects a strong commitment to empowering young women through education and skill development. By addressing barriers to access, this initiative paves the way for a more equitable future.
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