The third edition of Life After School (LAS 2026), organised by the Noella Foundation, has brought together more than 500 final-year students from tertiary institutions across Lagos State for a day of mentorship, career development and future-focused learning aimed at preparing young Nigerians for life beyond graduation.
Held in Lagos, the annual summit continued the foundation’s mission of bridging the gap between education and employment by connecting students with government leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs and industry experts who shared practical insights on navigating today’s evolving world of work.
Founded in 2024 by Layal Jade Tinubu and Seyi Tinubu, the initiative has quickly grown into one of the state’s leading youth empowerment platforms, providing students with the skills, networks and confidence needed to transition successfully from the classroom into careers and entrepreneurship.
Reflecting on this year’s edition, Layal Tinubu described the programme as a growing movement focused on investing in Nigeria’s next generation.
“What began as a single summit has grown into an annual platform dedicated to equipping students with the practical skills, knowledge and connections they need to navigate life after school with confidence.”
One of the major highlights of LAS 2026 was the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) training alongside the foundation’s four-week virtual LAS Bootcamp. According to Layal Tinubu, the new addition is designed to help participants develop future-ready skills that will enable them to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; media entrepreneur Mo Abudu; business leader Sim Shagaya; communications expert Funke Bucknor-Obruthe; actor and entrepreneur Buchi Franklin; education advocate Tola Akerele; entrepreneur Waloye Akinyemi; and representatives of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
Delivering one of the keynote addresses, Dr. Tunji Alausa encouraged students to prepare for an employment landscape that increasingly rewards adaptability and continuous learning.
“The transition from school to work is one of the most important and sometimes the most challenging stages in your life. You are leaving an environment where the path is largely structured and entering a world where success increasingly depends on initiative, adaptability, resilience and the ability to continue to learn.”
He also emphasised that while academic qualifications remain valuable, graduates must continue developing practical skills that meet the needs of today’s workforce.
“Your degree remains important, but degree alone is no longer enough. The world of work is evolving rapidly.”
Dr. Alausa noted that the Federal Government is repositioning Nigeria’s education system to better align learning with skills development, enterprise and employment opportunities, ensuring graduates are better prepared for the labour market.
Speaking during the closing session, Seyi Tinubu challenged participants to prioritise character alongside competence as they build their careers.
“Your reputation will open doors that qualifications alone will not get you. Let your name become synonymous with excellence, honesty, reliability and hard work in a world where shortcuts are often celebrated.”
He also encouraged the students to remain patient in pursuing long-term success.
“Make sure you choose the path of substance over speed.”
The summit also received strong support from notable personalities across the public and private sectors. Actor and entrepreneur Buchi Franklin opened his session by celebrating the audience as “Great Nigerian Students” while commending Layal and Seyi Tinubu for creating a platform dedicated to preparing young people for success after graduation.
Following the event, Layal Tinubu expressed appreciation to the speakers, government officials and participants who contributed to the summit’s success, reaffirming the Noella Foundation’s commitment to supporting young Nigerians beyond the event through the LAS Bootcamp.
“We hope you left with practical knowledge, valuable connections and the confidence to take the next step in your journey. We look forward to walking alongside our participants through the Bootcamp and continuing to invest in the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers,” she wrote.
As technology continues to reshape industries and employers increasingly prioritise practical skills alongside academic qualifications, LAS 2026 reflects a growing effort to prepare young Nigerians for the realities of the modern workplace while creating meaningful connections between education, innovation and opportunity.
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