…..Unravels Plan to Create Tech Clubs Across Nigeria
The Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has praised the DigitalForAllChallenge 2.0 launched by Tech4Dev and outlined plans by the Agency to use the vehicle to create ‘Tech Clubs’ across the nation. These efforts are in line with the agency’s goal of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027 and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, which aims to transform the economy and empower Nigerians through technology.
This was revealed by Inuwa during her keynote speech during the initiative’s launch for the skilling competition.
He said, “Our collective mission is clear as we launch this programme as a complimentary effort toward achieving a 70% digital literacy rate for Nigerians by 2027”.
“DigitalForAll Initiative is a visionary programme poised to shape the future of our nation and we also intend to use our Digital Nigeria platform for the final competition of the programme”, Inuwa noted.
The Director General used the occasion to thoroughly outline the eight Pillars in the Agency’s revised Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0). These include the following: Encourage digital literacy while developing your skills. Develop a robust ecosystem for technology research; forge strategic partnerships and collaboration; foster an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem; strengthen the legal and policy framework; encourage inclusive access to digital infrastructure and services; strengthen cybersecurity and enhance digital trust; and cultivate a vibrant organisational culture and an agile workforce within NITDA are essential pillars that aim to address the strategic challenges identified in achieving the Agency’s mandates, mission, and values.
According to Inuwa, the competition is a well-thought-out initiative that aims to equip every Nigerian with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the digital world. She notes that the document will be revealed in the first quarter of 2024.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that digital literacy is not just about skilling people; it is about empowering them to unleash their full potential”. “It is about providing growth opportunities, fostering innovation, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital world; that is what this programme is poised to achieve”.
According to Inuwa, “Our Key Objectives of the DigitalForAll Initiative hinge on Inclusive Digital Literacy, Accessible Learning Platforms, Public-Private Partnerships, Measurable Impact, and Awards”.
“For us to succeed, therefore, collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, industry leaders, and communities cannot be overemphasised”.
“Together, we will create a ripple effect of change that transcends barriers, bringing digital literacy to the forefront of our national development”, the Director-General assured.
Inuwa urged all parties to take on the challenge journey with enthusiasm, commitment, and a common vision of a digitally inclusive Nigeria, while also expressing gratitude to all the partners, sponsors, and individuals who have worked together to make the “DigitalForAll Initiative” a reality.
“We commit to a future where digital empowerment knows no bounds, and every Nigerian is equipped to thrive in the digital age”, Inuwa concluded.
Earlier, the Founder, of Tech4Dev, Joel Ogunsola, while welcoming guests and giving an overview of the DigitalForAllChallenge, made it known that a total of One Hundred and Fifty (150) Million Naira would be won across the different categories as prizes.
“We believe and are driven by the fact that every Nigerian deserves the right to digital literacy and skills for the future of work”
“There are very intentional efforts by NITDA to invest in the sustainability of this initiative for the long run”, Mr Ogunsola stressed.
The audience was then informed by Ogunsola that the main difficulties would be at the state level, regional, and geopolitical levels, with the big finale taking place on NITDA’s Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition Day.
“The challenge has two phases, the training and competition phases. After the first, beneficiaries will be required to take an assessment to qualify for the second phase”, the Founder espoused.
Perhaps Africa’s biggest digital skilling competition, Tech4Dev’s programme, in collaboration with NITDA and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, aims to promote self-improvement and the usage of digital skills by offering financial incentives.
