Group supports Nigerian graduates from UK with networking initiative

Representative, University of Wolverhampton, Oluwatosin Daniel (left); representative, Solent University, Southampton, Meritza Hengari; representative, Solent University, Southampton, Andrea Faustino; representative, University of Liverpool, Victoria Williams; Founder, Graduate Guidance Group, Emma Tarrant Tayou; alumni, Queen’s University Belfast, Wole Ibukun; alumni, Solent University, Southampton), Adekola Adebisi and alumni, University of York, Kesiena Oraka at the event.

To help Nigerian graduates in the United Kingdom reconnect with their former institutions, while also linking them with prospective employers, a firm, Graduate Guidance Group has organised the fourth edition of its #NGTalentUKEducated careers, alumni and networking event in Lagos.

The event, held in collaboration with nine universities in the United Kingdom, is as extension of alumni and career support offered by universities in the UK.

The programme, held in Lagos, also served as a platform for employers to meet Nigerian talents, who have acquired international experience through foreign education and want to apply their skills.
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According to the organisers, this year’s event was opened to all UK alumni present in Nigeria, irrespective of their former institution. It also allowed those already settled in a career to join as mentors.

Founder, Emma Tarrant Tayou, said: “One of the realisations we had was that many alumni are not necessarily looking to meet new employers, but are more interested in developing themselves.”

Tayou said the event was not only for the unemployed, but to support everyone with personal development and networking.

An alumnus of Queens University, UK, Wole Ibukun, said the programme helps in kick starting one’s career on arrival in Nigeria.

“It helps in bringing everyone, including universities, employers and employees in one room. I have benefitted from it and I believe it is a good opportunity for others as well,” he said.

Ibukun said though the country is battling Japa syndrome, there are those who studied abroad and returning to their home country, bringing their expertise to bear.

Head of Marketing, Jobberman, Damilola Abati, said the firm is partnering with the organisers to provide the right manpower to drive the economy, identify talents and connect them to employers.
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