Lafarge Africa Trains Women In Tiling, Block Laying

Lafarge Africa Plc has kicked off its female tilers and block laying training programme in a move towards gender equality and empowerment.

The initiative, which began at Nawair UdDeen High School in Ebute Metta, Lagos, aims to equip 40 women from low-income communities with essential skills in the traditionally male-dominated construction sector through a four-week intensive training.

Director, Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainable Development, Lafarge Africa Plc, Viola Graham-Douglas, reinforced the importance of breaking down gender barriers through such initiatives. “I am proud of what we are doing as an organisation in empowering the women in our communities.

Stereotypes around jobs or vocational skills no longer exist as we build an equitable world for all. We must give women the support they require to thrive and succeed.”

Reflecting on the training process, Trainer Representative, Lagos State Tilers Association, Folarin Quadri, expressed his appreciation for Lafarge Africa’s commitment to empowering women.

Director, Construction and Technical Instructor from the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Owoeye Oluyemi, urged the women to seize the opportunity provided by the programme. “This opportunity provided by Lafarge Africa should be fully utilised. These are in-demand skills that will open up economic opportunities for you.”

As part of the training programme, the women will also be empowered with relevant skills such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship and digital marketing. Upon graduation, the participants will be awarded certificates and enlisted into the Block Makers and Tillers Association of Nigeria.

“The Female Tilers and Block Making Training Programme is a testament to Lafarge Africa’s ongoing commitment to community development, gender equality, and sustainable growth in Nigeria. As these 40 women embark on their training journey, they carry with them the support and encouragement of a company dedicated to making a lasting impact on society,” Oluyemi added.