FG unveils digital training programme for 36,000 Nigerian youths

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Federal Government has unveiled a digital training programme targeted at equipping 36,000 Nigerian youths with globally relevant technology skills under the Digital Training Academy, DTA, initiative.

The programme, introduced as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, will provide beneficiaries with access to world-class digital training and internationally recognised certifications at no personal cost.

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during a signing ceremony held on the sidelines of the Education World Forum in London.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Education, Ikharo Attah, and made available to journalists on Saturday, the government said the initiative is aimed at preparing Nigerian youths for opportunities in the global digital economy.

Alausa said the Digital Training Academy reflects the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and human capital development, stressing that digital competence has become essential in today’s world.

According to him, beneficiaries will receive training in high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software engineering through partnerships with Coursera and Pluralsight.

He added that participants would also earn globally recognised certifications valued by employers across the world, positioning Nigerian youths for international career opportunities.

The programme will be implemented in collaboration with National Open University of Nigeria and Yaba College of Technology to ensure nationwide accessibility and effective learning support.

The minister explained that while NOUN’s nationwide structure would guarantee equal access for participants across all geopolitical zones, YABATECH would provide industry-focused expertise, facilitators, and mentorship support throughout the programme.

He stressed that beyond access to training, mentorship, completion support, and accountability would remain critical to achieving meaningful impact.

Alausa described the agreement as “a covenant between government and Nigerian youths,” assuring that the Tinubu administration would continue investing in initiatives that equip young Nigerians with skills, confidence, and globally competitive credentials.

The Federal Ministry of Education said the government had fully funded 36,000 licences for the first year of the programme, describing it as one of the largest government-funded digital skills investments in Nigeria’s history.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality education, strengthening digital innovation, and empowering youths with skills needed in a rapidly evolving global economy.