Lagos: A NGO, the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (WTEC), says it is strengthening its alumni network, partnerships, and mentorship structure to ensure sustainability amid rising competition and funding pressures in Nigeria’s non-profit sector.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the External Relation Lead, W.TEC, Mr. Adeyemi Odutola, disclosed this during an interactive engagement with the alumni at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday. Odutola noted that although more groups had entered the women and technology empowerment space in recent years, focus, consistency, and integrity had helped the organization remain relevant for over 18 years.
Odutola explained that the organization is increasingly adopting a community-driven sustainability model where former beneficiaries contribute to mentoring and sponsoring younger girls. “One of our long-term sustainability plans is building a robust alumni structure where beneficiaries become part of sustaining the organization. We are already seeing encouraging signs. Some alumni now mentor participants, while others sponsor girls in our programmes,” he said.
According to him, WTEC has trained more than 60,000 women and girls in STEM and digital skills since its establishment in 2008. Odutola acknowledged growing competition within the non-profit sector but noted that Nigeria’s population and digital gap still created enormous opportunities for impact. “There is competition, but there is also a lot to achieve because many women and girls still lack access to technology opportunities,” he said.
He attributed the organization’s longevity to credibility and strategic partnerships with international organizations, government agencies, and private institutions. “At WTEC, we are known for integrity, focus, and consistency. These values have helped us sustain long-term partnerships over the years,” he said.
According to him, organizations including Intel, Oracle, the World Bank, Access Bank, and other development partners had supported various WTEC programmes over the years. He mentioned that the organization was also expanding collaboration with government ministries, media organizations, and education stakeholders to increase its reach and impact.