The Edo State Government has concluded plans to equip 800 young people with advanced digital skills as part of efforts to prepare them for emerging global challenges.
The State Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, disclosed this on Wednesday in Benin City during the official flag-off of a six-month Advanced Job Ready Tech Skills Training programme, organised by the state government in partnership with Google and DeepTech Ready.
Iyamu encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity, noting that the initiative would boost their technical competence and position them for relevance in the global job market.
He said, “We are going to be certifying about 800 of our students in tech skills so that we can give them opportunities in the international space.
“We are going to be doing a serious drive in terms of computer-based test centres, putting students together to learn so that they can also compete anywhere in the world.”
The commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to empowering young people with modern digital competencies required for the future, adding that the administration was ready to support youths determined to succeed.
Iyamu further revealed that Governor Godwin Obaseki had approved the revamp of the state’s technology hub to strengthen the digital skills drive, noting that at least 25 computer-based test centres would be established to support the initiative.
At the event, a 400-level Mechatronics Engineering student of the University of Benin, Miss Elizabeth Chiketarauba, showcased a solar-powered tricycle she invented.
Chiketarauba explained that her experience in a traffic gridlock inspired the innovation, adding that the tricycle is capable of charging mobile phones, powering household appliances and serving barbers.
Impressed by the innovation, Iyamu announced a cash support of ₦1 million for the student on behalf of the Edo State Government, while urging students to embrace creativity and think beyond conventional boundaries.
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