The programme, which is being executed in partnership with Access Corporation, is designed to bridge the digital divide and prepare young Nigerians for the future by equipping them with digital competencies that align with the demands of the economy.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, Nigeria faces a significant gap in digital skills, especially among the youth, with only 43 per cent of the population having access to the internet and unemployment rates soaring at 53.4 per cent.
The TechDrive Programme is part of the foundation’s mission to address these challenges, providing underserved students with access to skills and career pathways in technology. The programme will give them the opportunity to explore technology as a field and also to gain practical skills that will set them on a path to economic empowerment.
“The TechDrive Programme will impact 5,000 students across 10 secondary schools in Ogun State through a combination of advocacy and hands-on training. The advocacy sessions will expose students to the transformative power of digital skills and help them envision the potential careers they can pursue in the tech space.
“In addition, 50 students will receive specialised training in Web Design, providing them with the foundational skills needed to enter the digital workforce and potentially become tech entrepreneurs,” the Executive Director of NerdzFactory Foundation, Ademulegun Olowojoba, said.
Highlighting the importance of investing in the digital education of Nigerian youths, he added: “Through the TechDrive Programme, we are making a crucial investment in the future of young Nigerians. By equipping these students with digital skills, we are not only closing the digital divide but also unlocking the potential for innovation and socio-economic growth in Ogun State. Our partnership with Access Corporation has made this bold vision possible, and together, we are committed to driving impactful change in the communities we serve.”
He explained that the programme will run through December 2024, with the dual approach of advocacy and hands-on training to ensure a holistic impact.
“By engaging students in advocacy sessions, they will gain insights into how technology can shape their futures, while the hands-on training will provide a select group of students with real-world skills in web design. These skills will enable them to build their own websites, positioning them for future job opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures,” he added.
