UNICEF and Unilever Host Career and Skills Development Seminar at UNILAG

UNICEF and Unilever Nigeria Plc organized a career and skills development seminar at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on July 4, as part of the "Future Unilever Campus Ambassador Programme (FUCAP)."

Jul 11, 2024 - 12:23

UNICEF and Unilever Host Career and Skills Development Seminar at UNILAG

In a bid to prepare Nigerian university graduates for the future job market, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Unilever Nigeria Plc have collaborated to launch a career and self-skills development program. This initiative aims to produce fit-for-purpose and future-ready graduates across the country.

On July 4, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in Akoka hosted a one-day seminar under the "Future Unilever Campus Ambassador Programme (FUCAP)." Thousands of students from various disciplines attended the event, making UNILAG one of the 20 universities selected nationwide for this training.

The program aims to reach three million youths, equipping about 700,000 of them with essential 21st-century skills by 2026. These skills include effective communication, collaboration, critical thinking, digital and financial literacy, and resilience.

Mr. Bharat Kundra, a program specialist at UNICEF Nigeria, emphasized the importance of acquiring skills beyond formal education. He highlighted that the rapidly changing world requires new knowledge and skills to remain competitive in the emerging market. UNICEF Nigeria, through various programs, aims to enhance youths' formal education and expose them to opportunities in the current and future job market.

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Ms. Zainab Ajadi, People Partner at Unilever Nigeria and FUCAP Project Lead, underscored the importance of these skills for workplace success and self-sustainability. She reiterated Unilever Nigeria's commitment to helping young people reach their full potential and contribute to national development, aligning with UNICEF's goals.

Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development Services) at UNILAG, acknowledged the need for equipping students with relevant skills. She noted that UNILAG prioritizes entrepreneurship and innovation programs to prepare students for societal relevance even before graduation. She commended UNICEF and Unilever Nigeria for the FUCAP initiative and for including UNILAG students among the beneficiaries.