Beyond the Classroom Foundation Launches Skills for HER Initiative to Equip At-Risk Young Women with Practical Skills in Abuja
Beyond the Classroom Foundation has launched Skills for HER, a community-based skills and economic empowerment initiative designed to support at-risk adolescent girls and young women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with practical skills that can help them earn an income and build more secure futures.
The initiative, which is supported by Ishk Tolaram Foundation, responds to the growing economic vulnerability faced by many young women living in underserved communities across the FCT.
Across many communities, there are young women who are no longer in school, unemployed, and have few opportunities to earn a living. Some left school because of poverty, family challenges, early pregnancy, or the loss of parents or caregivers. Others have completed basic education but have been unable to move forward because of financial hardship.
With limited support systems and no source of income, many become vulnerable to exploitation, gender-based violence, and transactional relationships simply as a means of survival.
Skills for HER was developed as a practical response to this challenge.
Through hands-on vocational training, participants will gain practical skills in food processing and fashion, while also receiving training in financial literacy and basic business skills. The goal is to help them build sustainable livelihoods, increase their confidence, and reduce their dependence on unsafe coping strategies.
Speaking on the initiative, Raquel Kasham Daniel, Executive Director of Beyond the Classroom Foundation, said the programme is about giving young women opportunities before vulnerability becomes their reality.
“Too many young women have dreams and potential, but very few opportunities. Skills for HER is about changing that. We believe that when young women have practical skills, the confidence to use them, and the ability to earn an income, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their lives and their future.”
The project forms part of Beyond the Classroom Foundation’s broader commitment to improving the lives of adolescent girls through education, safety, life skills, and economic empowerment.
The Foundation also acknowledged the support of Ishk Tolaram Foundation for investing in community-led solutions that expand opportunities for vulnerable young women and strengthen their pathway to independence.
As implementation begins, Beyond the Classroom Foundation hopes the initiative will not only equip participants with marketable skills but also demonstrate how community-based economic empowerment can reduce vulnerability and create lasting opportunities for young women.
About Beyond the Classroom Foundation
Beyond the Classroom Foundation is a Nigerian nonprofit organization committed to helping girls live safe, confident, and meaningful lives. Through education, safeguarding, life skills, and economic empowerment programmes, the Foundation equips adolescent girls and young women with the knowledge, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
