55 Lagos students gain entrepreneurship skills through YALI

Mercy Iheoma Ihedigbo

Ikeja Division of Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network Lagos has taken a bold step toward youth empowerment with the successful launch of its Adopt-a-School Initiative, engaging 55 secondary school students in a dynamic entrepreneurship mentorship programme at Casmiree Bonds School, Ifako-Ijaiye.

The event marked the completion of Session 1 of the programme and brought together students from JSS 3, SS 1, SS 2, and SS 3 classes in an interactive learning environment designed to ignite entrepreneurial thinking during the post-examination holiday.

Originally intended for a smaller group of JSS 3 and SS 3 students, the programme was expanded on-site to accommodate additional participants due to high turnout.

This adjustment underscored the initiative’s inclusive approach and its commitment to reaching as many young minds as possible.

The session combined engaging activities such as games, storytelling, and mentorship discussions to simplify entrepreneurship concepts and make them relatable.

Facilitator Joy Peter Erhahon set the tone with an engaging introduction, followed by a lively scenario-based game titled “Entrepreneur or Not?” which challenged students to identify entrepreneurial activities in everyday life.

Division Team Lead, Amaris Osaivbie Uwoghiren, led subsequent sessions, including an energetic participation exercise, “Stand Up If…”, and insightful mentorship discussions. She guided students through real-life entrepreneurial journeys, emphasized problem-solving as a foundation for business creation, and addressed common misconceptions about entrepreneurship.

One of the key highlights of the session was the introduction of a practical framework, Problem, Idea, Customer, which helped students understand how to identify opportunities within their immediate environment.

The impact of the session was evident as students collectively affirmed, “We solve problems!”, demonstrating both engagement and comprehension.

Speaking after the programme, Uwoghiren expressed satisfaction with the students’ enthusiasm and participation. She noted that the initiative aims to demystify entrepreneurship and show young people that business opportunities already exist within their daily experiences.

The success of the session was driven by a dedicated team of volunteers, including Magdalene Ologun, Morenike Ajidagba, Chidinma Lauritaval Ikewete, Joy Peter Erhahon, Ifunanya Ernest, and Amaris Osaivbie Uwoghiren. On-ground coordination and execution were led by Erhahon and Uwoghiren, while Ernest handled documentation, photography, videography, and reporting.

Building on the momentum of Session 1, YALI Network Lagos has announced plans to return for Session 2 in June or July 2026. The next phase will focus on hands-on vocational training, offering students practical exposure across five key areas: fashion and garment making, digital skills and phone repair, beauty and cosmetology, pastries and baking, and juice making and food production.

The Adopt-a-School Initiative reflects YALI Network Lagos’ broader commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, and sustainable community impact. By bridging the gap between formal education and real-world skills, the programme is positioning young Nigerians to become innovators, problem-solvers, and future entrepreneurs.