YABATECH’s lecturer named on UNICEF 2028–2032 Country Programme Group

Funmilayo Doherty, a lecturer at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), has been named to serve on UNICEF’s 2028–2032 Country Programme Group, marking a notable recognition of the institution’s growing influence in national and international development discourse.

Doherty’s appointment positions the academic among key stakeholders who will contribute expertise and strategic input toward shaping policies and programmes aimed at advancing child welfare and sustainable development priorities in Nigeria.

The Reference Group is constituted to serve as an advisory and validation platform for the joint programme between the federal government and UNICEF Nigeria.

Reacting to her nomination, Doherty expressed appreciation to the rector and management of Yaba College of Technology, as well as UNICEF Nigeria, for the confidence reposed in her.

“I am deeply honoured by this nomination and grateful for the trust placed in me. I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the development of a responsive, inclusive, and forward-looking Country Programme for 2028–2032 that truly addresses the needs of children and young people across Nigeria,” she said.

Ibraheem Abdul, the rector of Yaba College of Technology, described the nomination as a significant milestone for the institution and a recognition of its intellectual capital and commitment to national development.

According to the rector, YABATECH’s inclusion in the FG–UNICEF Reference Group further affirms the strategic role of tertiary institutions in shaping public policy and development frameworks.

“This nomination is not only a personal achievement for Doherty but also a proud moment for Yaba College of Technology. It demonstrates the confidence that national and international development partners have in the quality of expertise within our institution,” he said.

Besides, Abdul said that the college remains committed to contributing to evidence-based policy formulation, youth empowerment, and sustainable national growth through research, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

“We believe that academia must be at the forefront of national conversations on development. Our participation in the FG–UNICEF Country Programme process aligns with our vision of producing knowledge that impacts society and strengthens institutions,” he stated.

It is expected that the 2028–2032 Country Programme will reflect the perspectives of government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, academia, youth groups, and UNICEF across both programme implementation and operational frameworks.

Representing YABATECH and the country in this strategic national assignment, Doherty, described by the institution as a dynamic and multi-talented academic with a strong commitment to inclusive development and evidence-based engagement.

The federal government–UNICEF Country Programme (2028–2032) is expected to provide a strategic framework for advancing child rights, education, health, social protection, and youth development initiatives across Nigeria over the next five years.

Doherty is presently the director of research support and grants management.