iLift Foundation Set To Train 2000 Students In Lagos

<em>L-R: Mrs. Giwa, Dep. Director NGO Unit, Lagos State Basic Education Services;  Mrs. Shitta-Bay, Head of Unit NGO Unit, Lagos State Basic Education Services; Mr Olufemi Asaolu, HOD Lagos State Basic Education Services; Mrs Mojisola Ojo, Founder/ Executive Director, iLift Foundation; Mrs Ibiyemi Shittu, Corporate Services Manager, iLift Foundation; Mr Adeshokan, Chief Education Officer NGO Unit Lagos State Basic Education Services</em>

iLift Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to empowering youth in underserved African communities has unveiled its “Digital, Leadership, and 21st Century Empowerment Initiative (DLEI)”.

This year-long program, which is in collaboration with Terra Academy For The Arts (TAFTA) and Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education aims to equip 2,000 Lagos students aged 16 and above, across 4 Educational Districts with vital skills for success in the digital age and beyond.

This transformative initiative stems from the pressing need to address the educational and economic challenges faced by many youths in underserved communities.

Recognizing that without timely and effective intervention, numerous public school students are at risk of dropping out, falling into multigenerational poverty, and engaging in unlawful behaviour, iLift Foundation has committed itself to empowering these young individuals to compete and thrive in society.

The “Digital, Leadership, and 21st Century Empowerment Initiative (DLEI)” will hold across 4 Educational Districts in Lagos:

• District 2: Kosofe LGA

• District 4: Surulere LGA

• District 5: Amuwo-Odofin LGA

• District 6: Oshodi-Isolo LGA

Since its inception in 2021, iLift Foundation has focused its efforts on addressing the educational and entrepreneurial gaps faced by youth in disadvantaged communities.

Through specialized programs and partnerships, they’ve empowered over 3,000 youths with job-ready skills, provided healthcare access, and facilitated educational opportunities for underprivileged students.

The “Digital, Leadership, and 21st Century Empowerment Initiative” specifically targets the digital divide and gender disparity. The program equips both male and female students with the tools they need to transition smoothly from secondary education and reduce the number of youths resorting to street life.

By the end of the program, participants are expected to exhibit proficiency in basic digital skills, including Web and Graphic Design, Script Writing, and Art Entrepreneurial. The program is also geared towards fostering Creative Expression; Leadership Skills Development; and Community Engagement.

The support from stakeholders like the Lagos state government and TAFTA underscores the critical need for such initiatives and highlights the collaborative efforts required to bring about meaningful change.

Speaking about the initiative, Mojisola Ojo, the Executive Director of iLift foundation said:

“We are thrilled to launch this initiative and empower young minds in Lagos with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age. We are also excited to embark on this journey with the Lagos State Ministry of Education and TAFTA.”

Furthermore, she enthused that“this collaborative effort represents a positive and monumental step in the right direction towards providing the necessary tools, training, and opportunities for success. We are committed to continuous support for these young individuals, ensuring they can start and upscale their lives, and ultimately contribute meaningfully to society.”

The training will kick off in July, 2024 in the Maryland school district.