FCMB Flexxtern programme, bridging the gap between education and employment

By Esther Agbo

In an era where youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, the FCMB Flexxtern Programme stands out as a key player in Nigeria’s fight to bridge the gap between education and employment.

As the latest group of 30 young graduates complete their internships, the programme is receiving accolades for its transformative impact on fresh graduates.

Since its inception in 2016, the Flexxtern Programme has not only provided internships for over 200 young Nigerians but also actively responded to the urgent need for practical, on-the-job experience.

Targeted at individuals between the ages of 18 and 30, the initiative addresses a critical issue faced by recent graduates: the difficulty of finding employment due to a lack of relevant experience.

Partner organisations, ranging from law firms to tech companies, have been key contributors to the programme’s success. With firms like Insight Publicis, ActivEdge Technologies and Olaniwun Ajayi LP on board, these partnerships ensure that participants gain invaluable skills aligned with their academic backgrounds or career aspirations.

The high-quality performance of Flexxtern interns has led to widespread praise from participating organisations, which are increasingly seeing these interns as an asset rather than just temporary workers.

However, the impact of Flexxtern goes beyond the individual success stories of its participants. By equipping young professionals with the necessary skills for today’s competitive job market, FCMB’s initiative is playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s broader economic development.

With the country’s youth population projected to grow significantly in the coming years, the demand for similar programmes is likely to rise, making initiatives like Flexxtern essential for driving inclusive economic growth.