In a renewed effort to position young people for opportunities in the global digital economy, the Ondo State Government has graduated 500 youths trained in various digital competencies.
The month-long training programme was organised by the Ondo State Information Technology Agency (SITA) in collaboration with the Nigerian-German Centre for Migration and Development (GIZ-ZME) and other partners. It was conducted across four centres in the state.
Participants received intensive training in Backend Development, Frontend Development, Python Programming and Data Analytics, among other high-demand digital skills.
Speaking at the graduation and certificate presentation ceremony held in Akure on Friday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa stressed the critical role of skill acquisition in youth development and crime reduction.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through access to industry-relevant digital skills.
“Our administration remains focused on driving technological advancement and industrial growth as a core component of the ‘OUR EASE’ policy thrust,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the state government recently established a technology hub at the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, as part of efforts to strengthen innovation and digital capacity.
He added that the government is also expanding internet access across the state, including rural communities, through accelerated approvals for telecommunications infrastructure and the deployment of Fibre-to-the-Home connectivity.
The governor commended development partners, including GIZ-ZME, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and N-TECH Information Systems, for their continued collaboration in empowering young people.
In his remarks, Chairman of SITA, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, lauded the governor for fostering an enabling environment for youth innovation and capacity building.
He urged the graduating participants to apply their newly acquired skills productively and remain committed to continuous learning.
Also speaking, Head of Programmes at GIZ-ZME, Sandra Alonge, reaffirmed her organisation’s commitment to supporting the state government in expanding opportunities for youth development through digital training and innovation-driven initiatives.
She noted that sustained partnerships such as the collaboration with Ondo State demonstrate the transformative impact of investing in young people.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Omoyofunmi; Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Affairs, Yemi Fasipe; Senior Special Assistant on Technical and Vocational Education, Tayo Oluyi; Senior Special Assistant on Print Media, Ladi Okunigba; Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment, Orioye Gbayisemore; GIZ Component Manager, Ayomikun Olugbode; representatives of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment; and other stakeholders.
