The Balm in Gilead Foundation for Sustainable Development (BIGIF), through its Women and Girls Empowerment Hub (WAGE-H), concluded the 2026 edition of the SHE LEARNS empowerment program, equipping 36 adolescents and young people in Ondo and Ekiti states with vocational and life skills. The initiative, which culminated in a graduation and exhibition ceremony in Akure, Ondo State, aimed to foster confidence, critical thinking, and diverse career pathways beyond traditional trade training, according to Ayomiposi Ogundipe, the program’s Project Coordinator. "Vocational skills are important, but they are not the only pathway to empowerment," Ogundipe stated, emphasizing the program’s focus on self-discovery, communication, and decision-making as foundational to long-term success.",
WAGE-H, established by BIGIF, serves as a platform for empowering adolescent girls and vulnerable groups through practical skills, leadership development, entrepreneurship training, digital literacy, sexual and reproductive health education, and mental wellbeing initiatives. The SHE LEARNS program, part of this broader mission, integrates vocational training with life skills to address systemic barriers to youth employment. Ogundipe highlighted that the initiative seeks to create accessible opportunities for young people to explore their potential, stating, "It’s not just about belief in oneself, but about building platforms where they can learn, create, and envision alternative futures." The program’s curriculum included hands-on workshops in baking, sewing, crafts, and photography, alongside sessions on communication and problem-solving.",
The public-interest implications of the SHE LEARNS program are significant, as Nigeria grapples with high youth unemployment and limited access to skill development. By combining vocational training with holistic life skills, the initiative addresses both immediate employability and long-term personal growth. Ogundipe noted that the program’s emphasis on confidence-building and critical thinking equips participants to navigate diverse career landscapes, regardless of their chosen field. With 36 beneficiaries completing the 2026 cycle, the project underscores the role of grassroots organizations in complementing national efforts to reduce youth marginalization and foster economic resilience.",
BIGIF’s work aligns with broader efforts to empower marginalized communities through education and skill development. The WAGE-H hub, which has operated since its establishment, continues to expand its reach, offering tailored programs to address local challenges. As the SHE LEARNS initiative concludes its 2026 cycle, organizers plan to scale its impact by partnering with local governments and private sector entities to ensure sustained support for participants. The program’s success highlights the importance of integrating both technical and soft skills in youth development strategies, offering a model for similar initiatives across Nigeria.