By Rose Okudaye and Stellamaris Ashinze
A NGO, the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (WTEC), says it is strengthening its alumni network, partnerships and mentorship structure to ensure sustainability amid rising competition and funding pressures in Nigeria’s non-profit sector.
The External Relation Lead, W.TEC, Mr Adeyemi Odutola, disclosed this during an interactive engagement with the alumni at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday.
Odutola said that although more groups had entered the women and technology empowerment space in recent years, focus, consistency and integrity had helped it remain relevant for over 18 years.
He said the organisation is increasingly adopting a community-driven sustainability model where former beneficiaries contribute to mentoring and sponsoring younger girls.
“One of our long-term sustainability plans is building a robust alumni structure where beneficiaries become part of sustaining the organisation.
“We are already seeing encouraging signs. Some alumni now mentor participants, while others sponsor girls in our programmes,” he said.
According to him, WTEC has trained more than 60,000 women and girls in STEM and digital skills since its establishment in 2008.
Odutola acknowledged growing competition within the non-profit sector but noted that Nigeria’s population and digital gap still created enormous opportunities for impact.
“There is competition, but there is also a lot to achieve because many women and girls still lack access to technology opportunities,” he said.
He attributed the organisation’s longevity to credibility and strategic partnerships with international organisations, government agencies and private institutions.
“At WTEC, we are known for integrity, focus and consistency. These values have helped us sustain long-term partnerships over the years,” he said.
According to him, organisations including Intel, Oracle, the World Bank, Access Bank and other development partners had supported various WTEC programmes over the years.
He said the organisation was also expanding collaboration with government ministries, media organisations and education stakeholders to increase its reach and impact.
Odutola added that WTEC had implemented programmes in about 20 states through different partnerships, while currently maintaining active operations in five states. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Christiana Fadare
