Abia State Government has launched a Digital Skills Training Program set to equip 1,5000 young people in Isiala-Ngwa North and South with Advanced Digital skills to meet the demands of the 21st century.
Participants in the Three-Month Digital Skills Program, organized in partnership with LearnFactory and supported by the World Bank,will undergo intensive training in a variety of digital skills, including Coding, Web Development, Backend Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Prompt Engineering, Digital App Animation, among others.
Speaking at the launch, held at the CBT Center, Mbato Secondary School, Eziama Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba said the training which has rolled out simultaneously in Aba, would be conducted in all three Senatorial Zones of the state.
Sir Ananaba emphasized that the Abia Digi-Upskill program, themed ” A PATHWAY TO A NEW ABIA”, is a testament to the State Government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of its youth to achieve a digitally advanced and prosperous future.
The Commissioner restated the State Government’s resolve to empower youths in the state with skills that would enable them to thrive in the society.
He pointed out that the importance of Digital Skills in the 21st century cannot be over-emphasized adding that the Governor Otti is committed to empowering youths in the state with skills that would enable them thrive in the society.
“Let me start by first acknowledging the enormous efforts of His Excellency towards achieving ‘A New Abia’ of our collective dream.
“The importance of Digital Skills in the 21st century cannot be over-emphasized.
“Digital skills are essential in the 21st century for many reasons, including:Career readiness, Education, Everyday life, Social connection, Critical thinking, Innovation, etc.
“It is with the intention to avail our young people Digital Skills that will open doors for great opportunities that we have decided to partner with Learn Factory.
“With this Program, we are preparing your mind to start leading your best intended life, community and the world today and not wait till tomorrow”, he said.
The Commissioner urged participants to take the training seriously and make the best out of it, “for your good and for the good of the society“.
In his address, the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr David Kalu, said that the training would provide participants with robust education, cutting-edge resources, and a supportive environment that will help them thrive in Abia and beyond.
“Here, you will have access to:I nnovative Learning, engage with a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire you, fostering critical thinking and creativity.
“Your journey here is not just about personal growth; it is also about making a difference,” he said.
Mr Kalu, said that the Information Technology arena affords one the opportunity to work remotely for foreign companies and earn foreign currencies, which would greatly boost Abia’s economy.
“As you pursue your studies, you will have the chance to drive economic development.
“Also, through innovative projects and entrepreneurial ventures, you can contribute to the economic growth of our State,”he said.
The Commissioner urged beneficiaries to share the knowledge they would gain through setting up learning channels to contribute to the improvement of educational standards and inspire the next generation.
The Chairman of Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Mr Nnadozie Nwogwugwu, in his remarks, expressed delight over the decision of the commencement of the programme.
Nwogwugwu, represented by his Deputy, Mrs Vivian Obilor, described the training as an effective strategy for tackling unemployment and making Abia youths relevant in the Global Digital Economy.
“We assure you of our full support for the training, as we are vigorously mobilising our youths to join”, he said.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of the Learn Factory Nigeria, Mr Chibueze Ukaegbu expressed commitment to empower youths with skills that would make them globally relevant and urged beneficiaries to approach the programme with seriousness and dedication.
Ukaegbu said that the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Education has provided funding for the training of Abia youths in Advanced Digital Skills.
He said that the programme would feature courses such as Web Development, Mobile App, Digital Arts and Animation, Artificial Intelligence, Prompt Engineering and Data Engineering
“The assurance is that if you can give three months of being dedicated, you would be happy with the results
“This training would enable you to acquire skills that would make you globally relevant.
“The world we live in is a global village and for one to succeed, one needs globally relevant skills”, Ukaegbu said.
