Lafarge Africa Commences 2024 Female Tilers and Block Laying Training Programme to Train 40 Women from Low-Income Communities
Lagos, Nigeria, Wednesday, August 21, 2024. - In a significant stride towards gender equality and empowerment, Leading Innovative and Sustainable Building Solutions Company, Lafarge Africa Plc; has kicked off the 2024 edition of its Female Tilers and Block Laying Training Program. The initiative which began Tuesday at Nawair Ud Deen High School in Ebute Metta, Lagos, aims to equip 40 women from low-income communities with essential skills in the traditionally male-dominated construction sector through a 4 weeks intensive training.
Viola Graham-Douglas, Director, Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainable Development, Lafarge Africa Plc, reinforced the importance of breaking down gender barriers through such initiatives. "I am proud of what we are doing as an organization in empowering the women in our communities. Stereotypes around jobs or vocational skills no longer exist—both women and men can do almost anything. When you train a woman, you feed a family," she said, encouraging the participants, "Make the best out of this opportunity, and I hope to see all of you at graduation. Please do not drop out."
Speaking on the broader objectives of the initiative, Titilope Oguntuga, Head, Sustainable Development and Corporate Brand, Lafarge Africa Plc, emphasized the company's commitment to empowering women. "At Lafarge, we are committed to empowering people, especially women. The goal of this initiative is to create an industry where women can excel in skills and multiply their impact. Empowering women means empowering society," she stated.
Ginikanwa Frank-Durugbor, Head, Corporate Communication, Lafarge Africa Plc, expressed her enthusiasm for the program and its potential impact on the participants. "I am thrilled that we are doing this, and I eagerly anticipate your graduation. Please, learn well and strive for excellence. I pray for your success," she remarked.
Ayo Osho, Technical Service Engineer at Lafarge Africa Plc, outlined the training content, emphasizing the technical skills participants will gain. "We will teach you how to use Supafix for tiling, and you will work with our Elephant and Supaset cements, which are designed to make blocks stronger. These products are used daily—Supafix, Elephant, and Supaset," Osho explained.
Reflecting on the training process, Folarin Sukanmi Quadri, Trainer Representative, Lagos state Tilers Association expressed his appreciation for Lafarge Africa’s commitment to empowering women. "First of all, I want to thank Lafarge Africa for organizing this initiative. I commend and congratulate the team. Lafarge Africa, you’re doing well. Last year, we arranged mentors for the trainees after the program, and I look forward to doing the same this year if you all perform well," he noted.
Owoeye Oluyemi, Director in Construction and Technical Instructor from the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, urged the women to seize the opportunity provided by the program. "This opportunity provided by Lafarge Africa should be fully utilized—put your heart into it. Develop a daily affirmation: 'I will be useful to myself, my family, and society through this skill."
The women will also be empowered with relevant skills such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship & digital marketing. Upon graduation, the participants will be awarded certificates and enlisted into the Block Makers and Tillers Association of Nigeria. The Female Tilers and Block Making Training Program is a testament to Lafarge Africa's ongoing commitment to community development, gender equality, and sustainable growth in Nigeria. As these 40 women embark on their training journey, they carry with them the support and encouragement of a company dedicated to making a lasting impact on society.
