By DAYO ADESULU
The Ford Foundation has reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), pledging continued collaboration in youth empowerment, arts development and institutional growth.
The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Foundation’s Programme Manager, Joy Ehino Esebo, and its newly appointed Programme Officer, Omar Ndiaye, to the college’s management.
Speaking during the visit, Ndiaye described YABATECH as one of the Foundation’s earliest and most strategic partners, noting that the institution’s achievements in arts education and youth development were highlighted during his transition into the organisation.
According to him, the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship, appreciating the institution’s leadership and evaluating the impact of previous collaborative projects.
He emphasised that the Ford Foundation remains committed to building sustainable, long-term partnerships rather than supporting one-off initiatives.
Ndiaye disclosed that although the Foundation is reviewing its global strategy following the appointment of a new president, its current focus areas include preventing gender-based violence, natural resource management, climate justice, democracy, disability inclusion and the rule of law.
He added that the Foundation remains open to supporting initiatives, including those in the arts sector, that align with its evolving strategic priorities.
Also speaking, Programme Manager Joy Ehino Esebo reaffirmed the Foundation’s confidence in YABATECH, describing the institution as a core partner since the collaboration began in 2019.
She explained that the Foundation’s philosophy is centred on strengthening institutions and creating sustainable opportunities for young people.
Esebo noted that the arts continue to serve as a powerful platform for youth empowerment and assured the institution that the Foundation would continue to explore broader areas of collaboration whenever opportunities arise.
Earlier, the Curator of the YABATECH Art Museum, Dr. Odun Orimolade, welcomed the delegation and highlighted the museum’s growth since its establishment in 2020. He said the visit provided an opportunity for the Foundation to witness projects executed through its previous support.
Responding, the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, expressed appreciation to the Ford Foundation for its unwavering support, describing the partnership as vital to the institution’s mission of producing globally competitive graduates.
He reiterated the college’s commitment to equipping students with quality education, innovation and industry-relevant skills, stressing that strategic partnerships remain essential to achieving that goal.
The Rector also disclosed plans to transform the institution’s arts programmes into a full-fledged College of Arts and Design with stronger international collaborations.
He added that YABATECH is investing in staff development, strengthening its museum, expanding industry partnerships and aligning its academic programmes with global labour market demands while continuing to identify new areas of collaboration with the Ford Foundation through research and innovation.
