The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has launched a new leadership orientation programme called the ‘Youth Leadership Development Programme (YOU-LEAD)’ aimed at equipping young Nigerians with essential skills for personal and professional growth.
Isa Garba, CITAD’s Senior Programme Officer, represented the Executive Director, Yunusa Z. Yau, at the launch. He explained that the six-month pilot initiative is designed to bridge the gap between current leaders and the next generation.
“This programme is geared towards preparing young people for leadership by equipping them with the skills and insights necessary for success in various sectors,” Garba stated.
The programme specifically targets young, unemployed graduates.
CITAD has previously conducted the Inspiring Leadership Reflection Interactive Series (ILERIS) for over eight years. However, this new initiative features a structured six-month mentorship, seminars, practical training, and internships.
The pilot programme attracted 258 applications, from which 15 participants were chosen due to limited resources.
These selected young leaders will participate in three months of consecutive seminars, internship placements, and skill-building activities such as report writing and presentations.
Garba emphasised the program’s goal of enabling participants to become “self-reliant, either by gaining employable skills or by developing entrepreneurial ideas.” CITAD envisions these graduates as future job creators who will inspire others and reach their full potential.
He added that notable personalities who have excelled in their respective fields would be invited to share their experiences, challenges, and obstacles they overcame to reach their current positions.
The participants will undergo six months of training and receive a stipend of N20,000 for transportation to support them throughout the programme.
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