Wondering how to apply for GESP Nigeria 2025: Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership Program? Learn eligibility, benefits, and the exact steps to join
Discover how Nigerian girls can apply for the Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) in 2025. Step-by-step guide, eligibility, benefits, and FAQs on this UNICEF-led empowerment program.
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What’s GESP?
GESP stands for Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership.
It is a global initiative that brings together organizations like Generation Unlimited, UNICEF, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and major private-sector partners such as Microsoft, PwC, Accenture, Coursera, Unilever, Vodafone, and others.
The main goal of GESP:
- To equip adolescent girls and young women with market-relevant education, digital literacy, vocational training, and entrepreneurial skills.
- To help them transition into jobs, further education, or business creation.
- To break gender barriers in industries like technology, where women are often underrepresented.
In Nigeria (as at the time of drafting this article)
GESP has already benefited thousands of girls and young women.
The program offers hands-on training in tech skills like web development, mobile app design, laptop/phone repair, public speaking, teamwork, and leadership.
It also features the Girls’ Advisory Panel (GAP), where selected young women actively participate in decision-making, advocacy, and governance of the program.
In short: GESP is not just training; it’s a launchpad for Nigerian girls to thrive in tech, business, and leadership.
Why GESP Matters for Nigerian Girls
The Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) is one of the most talked-about empowerment initiatives in Nigeria right now. Backed by UNICEF, Generation Unlimited, UK FCDO, and global tech companies like Microsoft, Coursera, PwC, and Vodafone, the program equips adolescent girls and young women with digital, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills.
Since 2023, over 920,000 girls across Nigeria, India, and Bangladesh have benefited. In September 2025, new cohorts are being announced — and many Nigerian parents, students, and communities are asking: How can I apply?
Here’s your step-by-step guide to joining GESP in Nigeria.
Who Can Apply for GESP in Nigeria 2025? (Eligibility)
GESP targets adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) who:
- Are between 15 – 24 years old.
- Live in Nigeria (urban or rural communities).
- Are interested in digital skills, entrepreneurship, or vocational training.
- May have limited access to higher education but are eager to learn.
- Can commit to the full training program (online + offline sessions).
Special priority is often given to girls from underserved communities, school dropouts, or those facing financial/educational barriers.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for GESP 2025 in Nigeria
- Stay Updated on Official Announcements
- Visit UNICEF Nigeria website and Generation Unlimited Africa for application links.
- Follow UNICEF Nigeria and Generation Unlimited on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram.
- Check the Application Requirements
- Most applications require:
- Full name, age, and location.
- A brief statement of interest (why you want to join GESP).
- Consent from parents/guardians (for those under 18).
- Most applications require:
- Register Online or at Partner Hubs
- Applications are usually hosted online via UNICEF or partner websites.
- Some states have empowerment hubs (e.g., Yaba College of Technology in Lagos) where physical registration is possible.
- Attend the Orientation Session
- Shortlisted applicants are invited for an orientation & training readiness session.
- This helps ensure commitment and introduces participants to the program modules.
- Selection & Enrollment
- Successful applicants are notified via email/SMS/social media.
- Training begins (combination of classroom, online courses, and hands-on projects).
What Skills Will You Learn in GESP?
GESP goes beyond just coding — it blends tech, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Participants gain skills in:
- Web & mobile development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, app design).
- Digital entrepreneurship & freelancing.
- Laptop assembly, phone repair & ICT hardware basics.
- Communication, leadership & public speaking.
- Teamwork, problem-solving, and project management.
Benefits of Joining GESP for Nigerian Girls
- Global-standard training with partners like Microsoft, Accenture, and Coursera.
- Mentorship opportunities from female leaders in tech.
- Networking with peers across Nigeria, India, and Bangladesh.
- Career pathways into jobs, internships, or business startups.
- Confidence building to break stereotypes in male-dominated industries.
Is GESP free for Nigerian girls?
The answer is Yes. The program is fully funded by UNICEF and partners. Some training materials (like laptops or internet) may be provided depending on the cohort.
Can I apply if I am still in secondary school?
Yes. Many participants start as young as 15–16 years old.
Will I get a certificate after training
Yes. Participants will receive certificates endorsed by UNICEF and global partners, which boost employability.
Where are GESP hubs located in Nigeria?
Major hubs include Lagos (Yaba Tech), Abuja, and select state capitals. New hubs are added each year.
When will applications for 2025 open?
Cohorts are typically announced between September – October 2025.
The Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) is more than just a training program — it’s a launchpad for Nigerian girls to enter the digital economy, start businesses, and lead in their communities.
If you’re a girl (15–24 years) or know someone who qualifies, now is the time to prepare for the next GESP intake in Nigeria 2025.
Stay tuned to UNICEF Nigeria’s official platforms for updates, and don’t miss your chance to be part of this life-changing initiative.
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