Last week, we officially kick started our USAID/Nigeria supported ICHSSA-2 project Tech4AYP initiative with the onboarding of 90 adolescents and Case Managers at National Information Technology Hub (NitHub), University of Lagos. The 90 beneficiaries who were drawn from across the 11 LGAs where we work in Lagos will learn various digital skills for a period of 12 weeks ranging from mobile app development, front end web development, product design (UI/UX), data analytics and graphics design. The training is designed to equip and meet the needs of the beneficiaries including hands-on sessions, weekly assignments and end of project task to be submitted and graded in line with NitHub guidelines.
The Tech4AYP initiative is focused on promoting digital literacy and building the capacity of vulnerable adolescents and young person’s to gain in-demand and thriving digital skills that will enable them to compete and work from anywhere. In addition, Tech4AYP will promote digital inclusion, create access to decent work and entrepreneurship opportunities for vulnerable adolescents and young person’s living in Lagos.
While giving his welcome address, Dr Victor Odumuyiwa, Director of Nithub, Unilag introduced the beneficiaries to the 3 pillars of NitHub- talent upscaling, product innovation and startup incubation. He encouraged the beneficiaries to engage in continuous learning and exploration of opportunities provided by the hub.
In his special address, Dr Felix Iwuala, ICHSSA-2 Chief of Party lauded USAID and ARFH’s commitment to youth development. He advised participants to choose skill classes based on their strengths and to avoid fraudulent activities, focusing instead on legitimate income streams. There are other packs that comes with this training courtesy of USAID- laptops, internet modems and subscription, transportation allowance among others. Dr Iwuala stated.
Mrs. Abiola Oshifowokan, representative of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development congratulated participants and thanked USAID and ARFH for their support in empowering young people with digital skills. She urged the beneficiaries to justify the investments by shunning crimes and adding value to their communities.
In a rapidly evolving world, digitalization is gaining widespread significance across countries, as it can help enhance education, reduce youth unemployment, and promote socioeconomic development, but for majority of the vulnerable adolescents and young people, this is still a distant dream. At ARFH, we prioritize meaningful collaboration to create limitless opportunities for the vulnerable populations that we serve.
Tech4AYP is a dream come true for us as we hope to see these beneficiaries go on to access opportunities, build great digital products and do amazing things with their tech skills. Many thanks to our funders- USAID/Nigeria.
