Knight Frank Nigeria, a leading real estate consultancy firm, celebrated its 60th anniversary by investing in the future of the real estate sector through a scholarship and internship program for promising students. This initiative underscores the firm’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its belief in nurturing young talent. Six exceptional students, three from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and three from Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), were selected as beneficiaries of this program. The UNILAG recipients include Ajikanle Omolara, Fawunmi Oyindamola, and Egunjobi Olabimpe, while Adeaga Ifeoluwa Elizabeth, Igwe Chinaza Gift, and Olubakinde Oluwasegun Joshua represent YABATECH. The program aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience, equipping these future professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the real estate industry.
The scholarship component of the program provides financial assistance to the students, alleviating the burden of educational expenses and allowing them to focus on their studies. Coupled with the scholarship is the invaluable opportunity for an internship at Knight Frank Nigeria. This hands-on experience allows the students to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting, gain practical insights into the intricacies of the real estate market, and develop professional networks. This dual approach of financial support and practical training ensures a holistic development for the beneficiaries, shaping them into well-rounded professionals ready to contribute to the industry.
The official presentation ceremony held in Lagos marked a significant milestone not just for Knight Frank Nigeria and the chosen students, but also for the future of real estate in the country. Frank Okosun, the Senior Partner and CEO of Knight Frank Nigeria, highlighted the firm’s dedication to people – clients, communities, and employees – emphasizing that while property is the focus of their business, people are at the heart of their operations. He commended the students for their academic achievements and leadership potential, expressing confidence in their ability to make significant contributions to the real estate sector. The scholarships and internships, he explained, are designed to fuel their passion for real estate, provide invaluable experience, and open doors to exciting career opportunities.
Representatives from both universities expressed their appreciation for Knight Frank’s initiative. Professor Modupe Omirin, Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at UNILAG, acknowledged the firm’s long-standing relationship with the university, particularly its history of accepting interns since the 1980s. She stressed the vital role of such collaborations in shaping competent professionals. Architect Femi Lawal, Deputy Rector on Administration at YABATECH, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of industry-academia partnerships in preparing students for real-world challenges. He encouraged Knight Frank to continue its engagement with tertiary institutions, fostering a symbiotic relationship that benefits both students and the industry.
The selected students, represented by Ajikanle Omolara from UNILAG and Adeaga Ifeoluwa Elizabeth from YABATECH, expressed their profound gratitude for the opportunity. They recognized the significant impact this program would have on their academic and professional journeys and pledged to make their respective institutions and Knight Frank Nigeria proud. Their words reflected the hope and ambition of a new generation entering the real estate profession, eager to learn, contribute, and make their mark.
This 60th-anniversary initiative by Knight Frank Nigeria signifies more than just a celebratory gesture. It represents a strategic investment in the future of the real estate industry. By nurturing young talent, the firm is contributing to a more dynamic and skilled workforce, ultimately benefiting the entire sector. The program serves as a model for corporate social responsibility, demonstrating how organizations can play a vital role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation, and building a more sustainable future. The long-term impact of this initiative will be felt not only by the individual beneficiaries but also by the Nigerian real estate landscape as a whole.
