The iLift Foundation, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to empowering youth in underserved African communities, has launched its ‘Digital, Leadership, and 21st Century Empowerment Initiative (DLEI)’. This ambitious year-long programme, in collaboration with Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) and the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, aims to equip 2,000 public school students aged 16 and above with essential skills for the digital age.
Targeting students across four educational districts—Kosofe, Surulere, Amuwo-Odofin, and Oshodi-Isolo LGAs—the training is set to commence in July in the Maryland school district.
Mojisola Ojo, Executive Director of the iLift Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about the initiative’s launch, highlighting the importance of equipping young minds with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital era. “This collaborative effort represents a significant step towards providing the necessary tools, training, and opportunities for success. We are committed to continuously supporting these young individuals, ensuring they can start and upscale their lives and ultimately contribute meaningfully to society,” Ojo stated.
Ojo further noted that the initiative addresses pressing educational and economic challenges faced by youth in underserved communities. She warned that without timely and effective intervention, many public school students risk dropping out, falling into multigenerational poverty, and engaging in unlawful behaviour.
Since its inception in 2021, the iLift Foundation has focused on bridging educational and entrepreneurial gaps for disadvantaged youth, empowering over 3,000 individuals with job-ready skills, healthcare access, and educational opportunities. The new initiative targets the digital divide and gender disparity, equipping both male and female students with the tools needed to transition smoothly from secondary education and reducing the number of youths resorting to street life.
“By the end of the programme, participants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in basic digital skills, including web and graphic design, scriptwriting, and art entrepreneurship. The programme fosters creative expression, leadership skills development, and community engagement,” Ojo added.
With the support of the Lagos State Ministry of Education and TAFTA, the iLift Foundation’s DLEI initiative promises to make a significant impact on the lives of young people in Lagos, preparing them for a brighter future in the digital age.