In a bold move to modernise waste management practices, the TETFUND Centre of Excellence for Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) commenced a 5-day training programme on Digital and Carbon Literacy for staff of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) on Monday, August 4, 2025. The training, designed to empower frontline waste workers with cutting-edge skills, took place at the LAWMA Glass House, Ijora Lagos.
On hand to declare the event open was Engr. Ajayi Abimbola, an Assistant Director (Waste Management Research, Statistics, and Policy Development) at LAWMA. He praised TCEBCEM, UNILAG for leveraging its expertise to bridge critical knowledge gaps, and urged participants to harness the opportunity for career growth.
Bridging Knowledge Gaps with AI and Sustainability
Dr. Abdul-Ganiyu Adelopo, lead facilitator from TCEBCEM, described the programme as a transformative step towards “capacity upgrade and transitioning to the next level” in waste management.
“Transitioning requires equipping ourselves so that emerging trends like AI and circular economy don’t displace us,” he emphasised.
He disclosed that participants will receive Level 1 Competence Certificate in Waste Handling, which will serve as a springboard for an advanced UNIDO-backed training in Circular Waste & Resource Management.
Hands-On Learning for Real-World Impact
The curriculum blended theory with practical modules, including:
Ø Waste Classification & Greenhouse Gas Mitigation: Identifying high-pollution waste and sustainable disposal techniques.
Ø Digital Tools for Waste Mapping: Hands-on training with GPS, pH meters, and infrared thermometers to monitor dumpsite conditions.
Ø Safety & Data Literacy: Proper use of PPE and accurate recording of waste metrics to inform policy decisions.
One participant, Bukola Adebayo (Health and Safety Officer) hailed the training as “timely and eye-opening,” vowing to share the knowledge with her team. “I now understand how sorting waste reduces environmental harm and boosts efficiency,” she shared.
A Step towards Greener Lagos
The opening day of the training programme concluded with participant assessments and feedback sessions, re-inforcing the commitment of the duo of TCEBCEM and LAWMA to climate-smart waste management.
With dumpsite workers now trained as citizen scientists, Lagos edges closer to its vision of a cleaner, data-driven, and sustainable future.
Report: Isaiah Kumuyi
Photography: Ayo Oloyede
