The Women’s Development and Non-Profit Organization, Webfala Digital Skills for All Initiative (WDSFAI), has concluded an intensive four-month digital skills training program with graduation for over 100 female fellows from the inaugural session of its SafeHer STEM Skills program.
Speaking during the closing session of the program in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Executive Director of WDSFAI, Mrs. Nafisat Bakare, stated that the SafeHer program aimed to empower women and girls with relevant digital skills, ensuring self-reliance and protecting them against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Bakare mentioned that the graduates received comprehensive hands-on training in Software Development, Product Design, and Data Science under the program. Additionally, they were trained in soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and branding.
While congratulating the graduating fellows, Bakare encouraged them to stay curious and open to new experiences, emphasizing that “the world is constantly changing, and it is important to remain flexible and adaptable. There will be challenges and obstacles along the way, but with perseverance and a positive attitude, you can overcome anything.
“I want to encourage you to continue to strive for excellence and pursue your goals with passion and drive. The skills and knowledge you have gained through the SafeHer program will serve you well in the years to come.
“As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, remember that you have the knowledge and skills to create meaningful change in the world around you, as the future is full of possibilities.”
The WDSFAI Executive Director appreciated The Circle, Global Feminism in Solidarity and Action, for its support towards the success of the SafeHer program, stating that “without their support, this program would not have been possible.”
Among the graduates was a 62-year-old woman, Mrs. Adeola Ayano, who learned Software Development, reflecting the organization’s commitment to inclusivity.
Despite her age, Ayano expressed her embrace of the opportunity to learn new skills and expand her horizons, aiming to “prove that it is never too late to pursue education and personal growth.”
On her part, Aisha Ibrahim, who graduated from the Data Science track, expressed gratitude to the organizers for providing her with the opportunity to gain Data Science skills, mentioning that she had always wanted to learn the skills but lacked the finances to enroll in training.
“For a long time, I had the intention of learning a digital skill, but I did not have the capacity to enroll in paid training. However, when I learned that Webfala Digital Skills for All Initiative was organizing free training, I quickly submitted my application. Today, I am glad that I was selected and have completed the training, which I believe will open doors to new possibilities for me and other participants,” she said.
The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of certificates and awards to deserving participants, with ten of them receiving laptops. The ceremony was attended by family members, friends of the graduates, and dignitaries, including the Special Assistant on Digital Innovation to the Kwara State Government, Kayode Ishola.
According to the Programme Manager of Webfala Digital Skills for All Initiative, Raphael Ogundele, the success of the digital skills training highlights the transformative impact of empowering women with digital skills.
“By equipping women of all ages with the digital skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic digital age, the SafeHer initiative is not only improving individual lives but also driving positive social and economic change in our communities,” he said.