The first set of the Glo Skillbridge program, an initiative by Glo Foundation designed to equip Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) street sweepers with valuable soft and digital skills, is set to complete their training this week.
This transformative program, which began last month, has provided approximately 150 participants with training in high-demand areas such as fashion design, bead making, baking, and digital literacy.
Glo Foundation expressed immense satisfaction with the trainees’ progress, stating that the program aims to “broaden their horizon and create other streams of income for themselves,” thereby fostering greater financial independence.
The impact of the program is already evident. Mr. Ogunmade Johnpaul Tobi, a coordinator for fashion design trainees at YetrosLane Fashion Academy, Gbagada, lauded the participants’ dedication, noting their eagerness to learn and “put their best foot forward.”
Damilola Ilemobayo, a delighted participant, shared her excitement: “My skill as a fashion designer has improved, especially when it comes to beading fabrics, and I can’t wait to show the world all that I have learned. May God continue to bless Globacom.”
The enthusiasm extends to the baking trainees as well. Omotola Akinsanya, coordinator at Bakery Initiatives, highlighted the participants’ “strong passion for the training and a deep eagerness to learn,” despite varying literacy levels. Obadina Omowumi, a baking trainee, described the experience as “transformative,” praising the practical and theoretical knowledge gained, including essential topics like material costing and financial management.
In the realm of digital skills, Oluwatosin Abiodun-Lisk, a coordinator at ALX, expressed humility and joy in witnessing students transition “from zero to 100, learning really fast.” Endurance Francis, a LAWMA participant, affirmed it as a “life-changing experience,” confident the acquired knowledge will open new doors.
A standout story is that of Mrs. Suliat Ojulari, who, initially unfamiliar with computers, now dexterously navigates systems and applications – a testament to her determination and the program’s effectiveness. “I am very happy,” she shared, “at first I was discouraged because I had no idea about how to use a computer, but… now I am very good at operating a laptop, all thanks to Glo and the coordinators, they made it easy for me.”
The Glo Foundation will host a graduation ceremony for this inaugural group of trainees later this week, celebrating their achievements and newfound capabilities.
