In today’s fast-paced digital era, the ability to adapt and thrive in a tech-driven world is crucial. As a special-purpose vehicle of NiRA dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape, our mission is centred around driving the adoption of crucial digital skills in today’s rapidly evolving technological era. The .ng Academy is at the forefront of this transformation with its innovative “Street Digital Skills” project, aimed at upskilling the informal sector to ensure they contribute significantly to the digital economy. This ambitious project focuses on imparting essential digital competencies to individuals who form the backbone of our informal sector, thus bridging the gap between traditional vocational skills and modern digital literacy.
The Launch: Career Talk at Government Technical Colleges
To kickstart this transformative journey, the .ng Academy commenced a series of career talks, with the inaugural session held at Government Technical College Ado-Soba in Lagos, Nigeria. These technical colleges are pivotal in providing technical and vocational education, contributing significantly to the human capital within the informal sector. Our career talk sessions are designed to be relatable, engaging, and hands-on, ensuring that students acquire knowledge and immerse themselves in relevant digital tools.
The Career Talk at Government Technical College Ado-Soba, held on May 6, 2024, was a resounding success, with 150 students in attendance. The practical class offered students valuable insights into staying abreast of digital technology, enhancing their learning experiences with technology, and accessing resources to guide their educational journey. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the students were truly inspiring, reinforcing the importance of our mission. We also included a practical class on how to use AI tools and how these can be implemented in their fields of study.
A Collaborative Effort: Agidingbi Session
Building on the success of our initial career talk session, the NG Academy, in collaboration with the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Educational Board (LASTVEB), organized another impactful career talk at Government Technical College Agidingbi, held on May 15, 2024. There were over 100 students in attendance.
At the core of our career talk session at Government Technical College Agidingbi was a fundamental understanding: the urgent necessity for the informal sector to bridge employment gaps through upskilling and embracing digital competencies. We emphasized the critical role digital skills play in ensuring individuals are not only equipped to thrive in the digital space but also remain competitive on a global scale. The presence of the SSA to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Board underscored the multitude of opportunities awaiting these students in the digital domain.
Bridging the Digital Divide
While we acknowledge the robust technical and vocational skills possessed by these students, we underscored the indispensable importance of digital literacy in today’s digital age. Our goal is to empower them with the necessary tools to navigate and excel in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation. During our career talk at the Technical College Agidingbi, the SSA to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Board extended his congratulations to the .ng Academy for their commendable efforts in bolstering the digital capacity of the nation. He applauded the Academy for recognizing the immense potential harboured within technical schools, affirming their significance in shaping the future of our digital landscape.
Looking Ahead
The Street Digital Skills project is more than just a series of career talks; it is a movement aimed at empowering the informal sector workforce. By equipping students with digital skills, we are preparing them for the future and ensuring that they have the tools needed to thrive in a competitive digital market. Our journey has just begun, and we are committed to expanding our reach to other states within Nigeria, impacting more lives and fostering a digitally literate nation.
Join us as we continue to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive digital future. Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming career talks and other initiatives as part of the Street Digital Skills project. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and empower everyone to contribute to and benefit from the digital economy.
