Edo State Map
Edo Gates Foundation train youth in digital skills. The Edo State Government, in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has taught 500 youngsters in the state to prepare them for future employment.
The one-day ‘Digi Link’ event, held at the University of Benin, was organized in collaboration with ACIOE Associates and Public Digital to assist the state administration in improving its digital capabilities.
Ms Osayueamem Aladeselu, the Focal Person for the Edo State Social Investment Programme, told journalists at the one-day workshop that the initiative will educate adolescents for the future world of work by nurturing entrepreneurial abilities and encouraging enthusiasm about their future routes.
In line with the visions of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, she stated that the program aims to create a digitally empowered citizenry for the state, expand learning opportunities and bridge the academia-industry gap, and establish a talent pipeline for the public sector and digital ecosystem.
“We want to ensure that young people begin to take their place in the digital transformation process, acquiring the necessary skills to succeed in the future workplace,” she said. The training that is currently being provided to over 500 young people in the University Community has significantly improved their employability, academic performance, earning potential, and productivity, as well as developing responsible digital citizenship.”
“It also provided a fine platform for discussions about leveraging innovation and technology to provide solutions to societal problems, tapping into the various opportunities provided by the state government to expand its digital space, including the Edo Innovation Hub, and how they can participate and take advantage of training as such facilities to improve their skills and contribute their quota to the State and country’s development.”
Mr Ekenem Isichei, Programme Director, Digi Link, stated that the Learning Series for university students will travel to every university in Edo State to prepare students for a digital future and to establish a pipeline of talents to grow Edo State’s digital environment.
The program also included a panel discussion titled “Digital Transformation: Unlocking Opportunities for Career Growth,” which featured panelists Chioma Obiokolo, Head, Technology, Products & Consulting, Viisaus; Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, CEO/Founder, Herconomy; Mr. Donatus Igiekhume, Head of Unit, Citizen Service and Content Management, EDSG; and Precious Ekome, Faculty Lead, Innovation Hub.