A senior academic at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Funmilayo Doherty, has been nominated to serve on the Reference Group for the Federal Government–UNICEF Country Programme Development covering the 2028–2032 cycle.
Doherty, who is the Director of Research Support and Grants Management at the institution, will contribute to the advisory body responsible for guiding the development of the joint programme between the Federal Government of Nigeria and UNICEF.
The reference group is expected to provide strategic guidance and validation for the country programme to ensure that it reflects the perspectives of key stakeholders, including government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, academic institutions, youth groups and UNICEF itself.
The 2028–2032 country programme will serve as a national framework for advancing initiatives related to child rights, education, healthcare, social protection and youth development across Nigeria over the next five years.
Describing her nomination as an honour, Doherty expressed appreciation to the leadership of YABATECH and 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 to the development of a responsive and inclusive country programme that addresses the needs of children and young people across Nigeria,” she said.
The Rector of YABATECH, Ibraheem Abdul, described the appointment as a significant achievement for the institution and a reflection of its growing relevance in national policy discussions and development initiatives.
According to him, the college’s representation in the FG–UNICEF Reference Group highlights the important role tertiary institutions play in shaping public policy and national development strategies.
“This nomination is not only a personal achievement for Dr. Doherty but also a proud moment for Yaba College of Technology. It reflects the confidence that national and international development partners have in the expertise available within our institution,” Abdul said.
He added that the institution remains committed to contributing to evidence-based policymaking, youth empowerment and sustainable national development through research, innovation and strategic partnerships.
Abdul further noted that academia must remain actively involved in national development conversations, stressing that YABATECH’s participation in the FG–UNICEF programme aligns with the institution’s vision of producing knowledge that positively impacts society.
