EnterpriseNGR, YOE Seek Improved Workforce Devt, Social Impact Skills

EnterpriseNGR and Youth of Enterprise (YOE) have joined forces to address the dearth and deficiency of skills in the workforce while urging the need to tackle Nigeria’s persistent challenge of youth unemployment and underemployment through a social impact programmes geared towards impacting relevant skills for modern workforce.

The stakeholders drawn across industry verticals celebrated the graduation of 120 young Nigerian interns who had successfully completed the third cohort of their internship program. These young people have been empowered with relevant skills and experiences to equip them for the modern workforce.

The graduation of its third cohort held on Thursday, 10th October 2024, in Lagos,marks a significant milestone for the 120 young interns across Nigeria culminating a transformative journey for the six months internship programme.

The graduating interns are representatives from professional bodies, private sector and reputable organisations like Coronation, Custodian, Investment One, Polaris Bank, Saroafrica International Ltd, PwC, Nigeria Exchange Group, Access Bank, among others.

The event themed ‘Digital Dreams: Forging Successful Careers in a Connected World,’ highlights the critical role of digital skills and forward-thinking mindsets in the modern workforce.

Speaking at the YOE Cohort lll Virtual graduation ceremony, CEO of EnterpriseNGR, Obi Ibekwe commended the graduates for their dedication throughout the programme and encouraged them to embrace the lessons they have learned.

“Your journey through YOE has equipped you with skills and knowledge that are essential in today’s ever-evolving landscape. Now, it’s time to apply them with courage and determination as you build your careers,” Ibekwe said.

Delivering the keynote speech on ‘Thriving in the Digital Age: Skills and Mindsets for the Future,’ Chief Talent officer at Coronation Group, Pai Gamde urged the interns to adopt a future-oriented approach.

She noted that, “the digital age is about agility, creativity, and continuous learning adding that As you move forward, embrace challenges and view them as opportunities to innovate and grow.” She emphasised the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

Head of Programmes at EnterpriseNGR, Joy Abara encouraged the graduates to maintain the YOE spirit. “Continue to fly the YOE flag high in your future endeavors. The skills, network, and experiences you have gained here will serve as a foundation for your professional growth,” she remarked.

Announcing the top three performing groups and the overall best intern in Cohort III of the YOE Programme, Ms. Abara commended the winners for their outstanding performance, noting that, each member of the top three teams and the overall best intern would be rewarded with cash gifts and certificates of merit.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from Zahra Yunusa, YOE Administrator, who praised the graduates and wished them continued success as they embark on their next chapters.