Are You a Young Nigerian Tired of Limited Job Opportunities in a Changing Climate?
Imagine getting free, practical training in high-demand green skills like solar energy installation, recycling innovation, or climate-smart farming — then walking away with real funding to launch your own venture.
That’s exactly what the Green Youth Upskilling Program (GYUP) by Oando Foundation is doing for ambitious young Nigerians right now.
With youth unemployment still a major challenge and the global shift toward sustainability creating thousands of new opportunities, GYUP is bridging the gap. It equips participants with hands-on green skills, mentorship, industry exposure, and actual grant funding to turn ideas into impactful businesses.
If you’re between 18 and 35, passionate about the environment, and ready to build a future-proof career, this could be your breakthrough moment.
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Summary
- Company: Oando Foundation, with the Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC)
- Job Title: Green Youth Upskilling Program (GYUP) 2026
- Job Type: Full Time
- Qualification: SSCE/ND/BA/BSc/HND
- Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Job Title: Green Youth Upskilling Program (GYUP) 2026
What Is the Green Youth Upskilling Program (GYUP)?
The Green Youth Upskilling Program (GYUP) is a dynamic technical training initiative powered by Oando Foundation, with the Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC) as the key implementing partner.
It’s not just another workshop. GYUP is a forward-looking program designed to prepare young Nigerians for emerging jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities in the green economy — sectors like:
- Renewable energy (solar, clean tech)
- Waste management and recycling innovation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Climate technology and eco-friendly solutions
As climate change reshapes industries worldwide, GYUP focuses on practical, experiential learning that leads to real economic inclusion, especially for young women, marginalized groups, and underserved communities.
Why GYUP Was Created: Addressing Nigeria’s Twin Challenges
Nigeria boasts one of the world’s largest youth populations, yet millions remain unemployed or underemployed. At the same time, the climate crisis is creating urgent risks — and massive opportunities in clean energy, sustainable farming, and green tech.
Oando Foundation launched GYUP to:
- Bridge the youth unemployment gap with marketable green skills
- Build a new generation of climate-smart innovators and entrepreneurs
- Develop locally-driven solutions that strengthen Nigeria’s green ecosystem
- Align with global goals like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement
- Promote inclusive pathways for diverse young talents
The result? A program that doesn’t just train — it empowers participants to create jobs and drive environmental impact.
Impact at a Glance (Pilot Cohort Success)
The pilot cohort (2025) delivered impressive results:
- 25 youths trained
- 11 host companies provided real-world industry exposure
- 10 award recipients received grants (Oando Foundation disbursed ₦20 million total)
- 2 key sectors covered: Renewable Energy and Waste Management
These young innovators are already contributing to Nigeria’s green transition, proving that with the right skills and support, Nigerian youth can lead sustainable solutions.
A new cohort is now open, with plans to train even more participants.
What Participants Actually Gain
Joining GYUP goes far beyond classroom theory. You’ll receive:
- Hands-on technical training in renewable energy, recycling, sustainable farming, and climate tech
- Industry placements with host companies for practical experience
- Mentorship from ecosystem leaders and experts
- Grant opportunities to fund and launch your green venture (top performers in the pilot received significant funding)
- Networking with like-minded green youth leaders and partners
- Ongoing support — including visibility, market access, and entrepreneurship guidance
The program emphasizes inclusivity, scalability, and real-world application, ensuring participants are job-ready or venture-ready upon completion.
Past Cohorts: From Training to Real Impact
The 2025 cohort marked a strong start, focusing on Renewable Energy and Waste Management. Participants gained technical mastery, built prototypes, and developed business ideas that address Nigeria’s environmental and economic needs.
Highlights included close-out events with stakeholders from government, private sector, and development organizations celebrating the transformation of young talents into skilled green professionals.
Gallery moments from past events showcase participants installing solar solutions, innovating waste-to-value projects, and networking at high-level sessions.
See Also:
Who Should Apply for GYUP 2026?
GYUP targets Nigerian youths aged 18–35 who are passionate about sustainability and ready to gain technical or entrepreneurial skills in the green space.
- Residents of Lagos State (for the current cycle)
- Minimum of secondary education (SSCE)
- Foundational knowledge in technical areas (solar, electrical, mechanical, recycling, or agriculture) is an advantage but not mandatory
- Strong interest in creating environmental and social impact
The selection process is competitive and considers diversity and inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the training free? Yes — GYUP provides training at no cost to selected participants.
Do I need prior experience? Basic interest and passion matter most. The program builds on existing knowledge through practical, hands-on sessions.
What sectors are covered? Primarily renewable energy, waste management/recycling, sustainable agriculture, and broader climate tech/enterprise development.
Will I get funding? Outstanding participants receive grants to launch or scale their green ventures (₦20 million awarded in the pilot to 10 innovators).
How long is the program? Cohorts involve intensive training periods (typically weeks of focused sessions) plus industry exposure.
Ready to Join the Green Revolution? Here’s How to Apply
Applications for the GYUP 2026 cohort are now open.
Don’t miss this chance to gain future-proof skills, access funding, and become part of Nigeria’s green economy transition.
Spots are limited — early applications are strongly encouraged.
Deadline
Not Specified
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