YALI launches Adopt-a-School Initiative, trains 55 Lagos students in business skills

Michael Olumide

Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network Lagos has empowered no fewer than 55 secondary school students through its Adopt-a-School Entrepreneurship Initiative in Lagos.

The programme, organised by the Ikeja Division of YALI Network Lagos, marked the successful completion of Session 1 of its Entrepreneurship Mentorship Programme at Casmiree Bonds School, Ifako-Ijaiye.

The interactive session brought together students from Junior Secondary School 3, Senior Secondary School 1, 2 and 3, to equip them with foundational entrepreneurial knowledge and practical thinking skills during the post-examination holiday.

Originally designed for a smaller group of JSS 3 and SS 3 students, the session was expanded on-site to accommodate more participants following an impressive turnout, reflecting the initiative’s inclusive approach.

The programme featured a mix of games, storytelling and mentorship discussions tailored to simplify entrepreneurship concepts and make them relatable to the students’ daily experiences.

Facilitator Joy Peter Erhahon introduced participants to the basics of entrepreneurship and led an engaging scenario-based activity titled “Entrepreneur or Not?”, which encouraged students to identify business opportunities in everyday situations.

Further sessions were anchored by the Division Team Lead, Amaris Osaivbie Uwoghiren, who guided students through interactive exercises and mentorship discussions focused on personal entrepreneurial journeys, problem-solving and breaking common myths about entrepreneurship.

One of the highlights of the session was the introduction of a simple framework — Problem, Idea, Customer — designed to help students identify opportunities within their immediate environment and translate them into viable business ideas.

The session concluded with an enthusiastic affirmation from the students, who chorused, “We solve problems!”, demonstrating their understanding and engagement.

Speaking after the event, Uwoghiren described the students’ participation as impressive, noting that the initiative is focused on helping young people realise that entrepreneurship is already embedded in their everyday lives.

The success of the programme was supported by a team of volunteers, including Magdalene Ologun, Morenike Ajidagba, Chidinma Lauritaval Ikewete, Joy Peter Erhahon, Ifunanya Ernest and Amaris Uwoghiren, who contributed to its planning and execution.

On-ground facilitation was handled by Joy Peter Erhahon and Amaris Uwoghiren, while Ifunanya Ernest coordinated documentation, media coverage, photography and reporting.

Encouraged by the success of the first session, YALI Network Lagos disclosed plans to hold a second phase of the programme in June or July 2026.

The upcoming session will focus on hands-on vocational training across key areas such as fashion and garment making, digital skills and phone repair, beauty and cosmetology, pastries and baking, as well as juice making and food production.

The Adopt-a-School Initiative reflects YALI Network Lagos’ broader commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development and community impact by bridging the gap between formal education and practical, real-world skills.