Case Details
Partner Name:
Afterschool Graduate Development Centre (AGDC)
Date:
2021
Category:
Human Capital Development
Location:
Lagos
Human Capital Development
Problem
Afterschool Graduate Development Centre (AGDC), a social enterprise and a catalyst for transformation, identified a significant gap in the employability of graduates seeking to work in educational institutions. Many graduates lacked not only the formal qualifications but also the practical application skills necessary to effectively deliver lessons in the classroom. This challenge was particularly pronounced among those aspiring to become teachers, where the ability to engage students and apply modern teaching methodologies is crucial.
Approach
To address these challenges, AGDC launched an annual empowerment initiative targeting young graduates, particularly those aiming to enter the teaching profession. This initiative was implemented in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) and delivered by a team of veteran educational practitioners and expert trainers. The programme was meticulously designed to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and practical teaching skills, ensuring that participants were not only job-ready but also capable of thriving in the classroom environment.
Key Features of the Program
- Strategic Trainer Integration: Trainers were carefully selected and integrated into the AGDC systems and curriculum, ensuring alignment with the programme’s objectives and the needs of the participants.
- Tailored Training Content: Each trainer was assigned specific training topics, and they developed bespoke training slides tailored to the unique requirements of the participants.
- Interactive Workshop Implementation: The training was delivered through a series of interactive workshops, allowing participants to engage with the material in a hands-on, practical manner.
- Comprehensive Trainer Support: Open communication channels were maintained throughout the project to keep trainers informed and aligned, ensuring smooth execution.
- Teacher Placement Assistance: The programme provided targeted support to facilitate the placement of trained teachers in various schools, bridging the gap between training and employment.
- Continuous Monitoring and Support: After placement, the programme included ongoing monitoring of the teachers to assess their progress, identify any gaps, and address emerging needs. This was complemented by post-mentoring support to further enhance their development.
- Evaluation and Feedback: The programme included structured project evaluation sessions, gathering feedback from both the placed teachers and the school leaders to assess performance and impact.
Result
The initiative led to the successful placement of numerous teachers in various schools across Lagos State. Feedback from both the teachers and the school leaders was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the effectiveness of the training programme in equipping teachers with the necessary skills to excel in the classroom. Many of the placed teachers were recognized for their strong performance and ability to make a meaningful impact in their new roles.
Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create." — Jana Kingsford