The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation has opened a landmark global youth forum in Lagos, gathering nearly 200 young people from more than 50 countries, alongside government officials and international development leaders. The event marks a significant moment for the organization, coinciding with the Award’s social value surpassing £1 billion for the first time, as reported by ThisDay.
Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh and Chairman of the Foundation, is leading the delegation in Lagos for the week-long programme, which features a three-day youth leadership workshop followed by high-level strategy sessions. Coverage from Grassroots.ng highlights that the forum is designed to scale access to non-formal education and equip young people with practical skills for future employment and global competitiveness.
Award Secretary-General Martin Houghton-Brown said the initiative is increasingly vital in a world shaped by rapid technological change. He emphasised that the Award helps young people build resilience, problem-solving abilities and creativity, qualities he described as essential “human edge” skills.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also commended the initiative, noting that Nigeria’s young population represents “a reservoir of talent” and that the UK remains committed to strengthening cooperation in education, innovation and youth development, as reported by Grassroots.ng.
