By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a bold move to combat unemployment and foster self-reliance, the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) has officially launched a comprehensive, free vocational training program for the youth of Badagry.
Tagged the Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab, the initiative offers a three-month intensive curriculum designed to turn raw talent into professional expertise.
The program comes at a critical time when digital and creative skills are becoming the primary currency in the global job market. By offering high-value training at no cost, CYID is bridging the gap for young people who have the passion to learn but lack the financial means to enroll in private academies.
The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab is not a one-size-fits-all program. It features five distinct tracks tailored to meet both traditional and modern industry demands:
Visual Art Class: For the next generation of painters and fine artists.
Graphic Design Class: Focused on digital branding and visual communication.
Web Design Class: Teaching the fundamentals of the digital architecture.
Bag Design and Production: A hands-on craft class for fashion entrepreneurs.
Advanced Fashion Class: Elevating local tailoring to international standards.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the initiative, the pioneer of CYID, Mr. Victor Aihawu, emphasized that the program is about more than just technical ability. "The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab aims to equip young people in Badagry with practical skills that lead to income generation," Aihawu stated.
He further explained that the training is integrated with mentoring and personal development sessions. "We want to build confidence, discipline, and clarity of purpose. This helps our participants make informed life choices and pursue productive paths within their own communities," he added.
To ensure a high level of commitment, CYID has announced a merit-based reward system. Plans are already in motion to reward the best student from each class upon completion of the three-month journey.
Recognizing that skill without tools can lead to frustration, Mr. Aihawu revealed that the center is currently in talks with various institutions to provide start-up tools for the beneficiaries. This support system is designed to ensure that graduates can move immediately from the classroom to the marketplace.
In a direct appeal to the young people of Badagry and surrounding communities, Mr. Aihawu offered a powerful piece of advice on the value of vocational training. "Skill is the only tool that guarantees a sustainable future void of dependence on anyone," he noted.
He urged the youth to view skill development as a long-term investment in their personal freedom. By mastering a craft, he believes the youth can escape the cycle of poverty and become employers of labor themselves, rather than perpetual job seekers.
The Jopen Legacy Creative Impact Lab is strategically positioned to revitalize the local economy of Badagry. By training almost 60 individuals at a time in various classes, the program is effectively seeding the community with new businesses and digital service providers.
The physical center itself has become a hub of activity, with modern equipment and a conducive learning environment that reflects the professional standards the students are expected to uphold. For many participants, this is their first encounter with high-end graphic software or advanced industrial sewing machines.