In a move to bridge the persistent divide between Nigerian academic curricula and global industry demands, the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has formalised a strategic partnership with Sterling Bank Plc. The collaboration, cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), introduces a structured work-study programme designed to produce market-ready graduates.
The initiative targets National Diploma (ND) graduates and current undergraduates, offering a unique hybrid model where students combine continued academic pursuits with paid employment at Sterling Bank. Beyond the practical experience, participants will also benefit from scholarships supported by the financial institution under its “Grow with Sterling” initiative.
Mr. Kola Oluyemi, Group Head of Sterling Academy, described the partnership as a deliberate response to the employability challenges facing Nigerian graduates. He noted that the disconnect between classroom theories and workplace expectations remains a significant barrier to youth employment. By integrating professional competencies directly into the learning cycle, the bank aims to build a “future-ready” workforce that can hit the ground running upon graduation.
The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, hailed the MoU as a transformative step for technical education in Nigeria. He emphasized that the goal is to produce graduates who are not only academically sound but also practically skilled and familiar with high-level industry environments.
The Deputy Registrar of the college, Mr. Adekunle Adams, confirmed that both institutions are committed to a full and immediate implementation of the framework. Both parties expressed confidence that this synergy will serve as a national benchmark for how educational institutions and the private sector can collaborate to solve the nation’s skills gap.
