A Non-profit organisation providing training in vocational and technical skills, Etiwa Tech, has equipped 10 female graduates in underserved communities in Lagos under their Illuminating Futures programme.

The programme, sponsored by the In-Country Micro Projects Scheme (ICMPS) of Irish Aid, provided six months of hands-on technical training and six months of internships, along with mentorship, lunch provisions, globally recognised certifications, and start-up toolkits to the beneficiaries.

The graduates were trained in Electrical and Solar Installation, Basic Engineering and Craftsmanship, Domestic Wiring and Installation, Industrial Wiring and Motor Control, Solar and Photovoltaic Installation including 11 other soft skills to help them thrive in the industry.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Managing Director of Etiwa Tech, Jody Adewale, emphasised the need for greater women’s participation in skilled trades to help bridge gaps in the labour market and promote gender equality. She described the occasion as a celebration of achievement, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future.

She stressed that the essence of the training was to give young women from underserved communities the chance to learn skills that open doors, create livelihoods, and transform their lives.

The Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, posited that Nigeria’s success relies on its massive investment in technical and vocational skills, noting that women must be prioritised to succeed in the industry.

Sharing her 12-month experience during the training, Piabari Blessing, who received training in Electrical and Solar Installation, said that having studied Electrical Engineering, the practical skills learnt during the training has placed her above others.

“Thank God for the job placement, I am seeing myself working in the industry, with partners, professionals, to bring out my professionalism and skills to reality and also contribute to projects.”