During the induction ceremony for the inaugural group of students from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Mr. Tunde Mabogunje, the Lagos Regional Sales Director for Dangote Cement, emphasized that the scheme is designed to provide Engineering students with hands-on experience in real-world situations.
This initiative is a part of Dangote Cement’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts and underscores the company’s commitment to developing vocational and technical skills among Nigerian youths.
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Mabogunje explained that the first phase of the program is being launched in Lagos and Kano States, with 20 students selected—10 from each state. The selection process involved collaborating with Yaba College of Technology and Kano Polytechnic to identify the best-performing students in Building Studies. The interns will be trained in the proper application of cement, particularly Dangote Cement, in line with the standards set by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON). They will be deployed to various building project sites, where Dangote Cement’s technical officers will oversee their progress.
Highlighting the significance of the project, Mabogunje stated, “Acquiring vocational and technical skills is crucial for the growth of any sector and the economy as a whole. This internship program is a significant step towards addressing the skills gap in the building industry. As trainees gain practical field experience, they will be well-prepared to become well-rounded professionals and make meaningful contributions to the industry.”
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The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr. (Engr.) Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, praised Dangote Cement for the initiative, describing it as a landmark achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility. He assured that the participating students from Yaba College of Technology would meet the program’s expectations and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in equipping students with the practical skills needed to succeed in their professional careers.
The Dangote Cement Internship Scheme reflects the company’s broader commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to excel in various industrial sectors, including cement manufacturing, oil refining, and fertilizer production. The program is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce and ensuring that Nigerian youths are well-equipped to contribute to the nation’s development.