Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has partnered with Sterling Bank Plc to launch a structured work-study programme aimed at bridging the gap between academic training and industry requirements.
The announcement was made in a statement by the college’s Deputy Registrar, Mr. Adekunle Adams, on Friday.
Adams outlined the objectives of the partnership and the framework for its implementation.
He explained that the collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at YABATECH.
The MoU is designed to integrate classroom learning with practical workplace experience, ensuring that students graduate with relevant, market-ready, and competitive skills.
Adams cited Mr. Kola Oluyemi, Group Head of Sterling Academy, noting that the initiative demonstrates the bank’s commitment to preparing a future-ready workforce. The programme aligns academic training with real-world industry needs and addresses challenges related to youth employability.
According to Adams, Oluyemi emphasized that the partnership helps bridge the disconnect between school curricula and workplace expectations, enabling participants to gain professional skills while completing their academic qualifications.
“The programme targets National Diploma graduates and undergraduates, who will combine paid employment at Sterling Bank with their ongoing studies, while also benefiting from scholarships under the Grow with Sterling initiative,” Adams said.
The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, described the collaboration as a strategic move to reposition technical education, producing graduates who are academically strong, practically skilled, and equipped with meaningful industry exposure.
Dr. Mas’ud Ajala, Director of the Centre for Linkages, Partnership and International Relations at YABATECH, noted that the programme responds directly to current labour market realities.
Adams added that National Diploma graduates are in high demand, and the college is committed to full implementation of the initiative.
Both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership could serve as a national model, with full rollout expected to begin shortly.