The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has organised a study tour to Queen’s University in Toronto, Canada, for youth leaders in the state.

This was announced by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, during his keynote address at a press briefing and the signing of a joint agreement for the programme, themed “Empower Lagos” and facilitated by Future Perspectives.

He said the development was a reaffirmation of the state government’s unwavering dedication to youth development, global exposure and inclusive leadership.

“It exemplifies what we can do when we embrace partnership, vision and depositing great investment in our young people.

“This tour will broaden our youth leaders’ perspectives and equip them with relevant skills to contribute meaningfully to policy making, innovation and community impact back home.

“It will empower our youth leaders to think globally, lead confidently and act with a strong sense of civic responsibility,” he added.

Ogunlende added that the study tour focusing on “Leadership in Innovation and Sustainable Development” will allow the participants to gain hands-on experience in key areas.

He noted, “The participants will experience rich cultural immersions, including a tour of Queen’s and Kingston’s community, the 1000 Islands Boat Cruise, the Majestic Niagara Falls, the Dunin Deshpande Innovation Centre, the Ignition Cafe, the Ingenuity Lab Research Institute, the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts, and the Amazon Fulfilment Centre.

“Our youth leaders will also participate in the prestigious Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship, hosted by Queen’s University Smith School of Business.”

Earlier in her welcome address, the permanent secretary, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that “’Empower Lagos’ is not just a call to action; it is a movement, a bold declaration that our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the changemakers of today.

“Through this initiative, we are not merely opening doors; we are building bridges to a future where Lagos shines even brighter on the global stage, driven by the energy, innovation and leadership of its youth.”

Taking the study tour overview, Executive Director of Future Perspectives, Abby Asekun, stated that the programme was packaged to give participants a life-transforming experience, both from the academic and practical perspective, with entrepreneurial courses to make the youth leaders well-rounded at the end.