Ford Foundation Reaffirms Strategic Partnership With YABATECH, Backs Youth Empowerment And Arts Development
The Ford Foundation has reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), expressing commitment to sustaining collaboration in youth empowerment, arts development and institutional growth.
This was made during a courtesy visit to the institution’s management, led by Ford Foundation Programme Manager, Joy Ehino Esebo, and the Foundation’s new Programme Officer, Omar Ndiaye.
Speaking during the meeting, Ndiaye said the partnership with YABATECH was one of the first major collaborations highlighted during his transition into the Foundation, describing the institution as a strategic partner with a remarkable track record in arts education and youth development.
He explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening existing ties, appreciating the institution’s leadership and assessing the progress made through previous collaborations.
“The partnership with YABATECH was one of the first things emphasised during my handover. We have heard about the tremendous work the institution is doing, particularly in the arts. We believe in long-term partnerships, not one-off projects, and today’s visit is an opportunity to deepen that relationship,” Ndiaye said.
He disclosed that the Foundation is currently reviewing its global strategy following the appointment of a new president, noting that its current priorities remain the prevention of gender-based violence, natural resource management, climate justice, democracy, disability inclusion and the rule of law.
According to him, while future funding priorities are still being developed, the Foundation remains open to supporting initiatives that align with its strategic objectives, including opportunities within the arts sector.
Programme Manager, Joy Ehino Esebo also reaffirmed the Foundation’s confidence in YABATECH, describing the institution as a core partner since the collaboration began in 2019.
She stressed that Ford Foundation’s approach focuses on institutional sustainability rather than isolated interventions.
“We believe young people deserve opportunities and agency, and the arts remain one of the strongest platforms to achieve that. Our partnership with YABATECH has been impactful, and we remain friends of the institution. Wherever opportunities arise, we will continue to explore areas of collaboration beyond the arts in pursuit of our shared goal of making Nigeria a better place,” she said.
Earlier, Curator of the YABATECH Art Museum, Dr. Odun Orimolade, welcomed the delegation and highlighted the museum’s growth since its establishment in 2020, noting that the visit would provide the Foundation with first hand insight into projects implemented through previous support.
Responding, the Rector, Dr Engr Ibraheem Abdul, thanked the Ford Foundation for its continued partnership and described the relationship as instrumental to the college’s vision of producing globally competitive graduates.
He said the institution remains committed to empowering students through quality education, innovation and industry-focused training.
“Our young people are our diamonds. We must continue to polish them by providing opportunities, skills and exposure that will enable them to succeed. That is why partnerships like this are invaluable,” the Rector said.
He revealed that YABATECH is pursuing plans to expand its creative sector by transforming its arts programmes into a full-fledged College of Arts and Design with stronger international collaborations.
According to him, the institution is also investing heavily in staff development, strengthening its museum, expanding industry partnerships and aligning academic programmes with global labour market demands.
The Rector added that YABATECH would continue to monitor the Foundation’s evolving strategic priorities to identify areas where the institution could contribute through research, innovation and collaborative projects.
