The fifth edition of the DigiGap Programme, an initiative aimed at addressing Nigeria’s digital skills shortage, has successfully wrapped up, marking a significant step in building the country’s tech workforce. Spearheaded by Access Corporation and NerdzFactory Foundation, this year’s programme focused on equipping young Nigerians with essential tech skills while fostering human capital development in the burgeoning digital economy.
Shaping the Future with Digital Training
Ade Olowojoba, Director of the NerdzFactory Foundation, hailed the DigiGap Programme as a “catalyst for transformation,” emphasizing its role in preparing participants for Nigeria’s fast-growing tech ecosystem. As the country increasingly asserts itself as a key player in the global tech industry, initiatives like DigiGap are instrumental in ensuring that young Nigerians are equipped with the competitive skills needed to thrive.
This year, the programme trained 500 youths from Lagos over a four-week period, immersing them in intensive courses on Product Design and Digital Marketing. The hybrid learning model allowed participants to attend online and in-person sessions, providing them with both technical knowledge and practical experience.
- Course Duration: Four weeks
- Skills Offered: Product Design, Digital Marketing
- Participants: 500 youths
- Learning Model: Hybrid (online and in-person)
The combination of theory and practice ensured that the participants were not only able to grasp the technical aspects of digital roles but also apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
A Holistic Approach to Workforce Development
Beyond just technical training, DigiGap 5.0 placed significant emphasis on developing soft skills, which are crucial for career success in any industry. Participants engaged in workshops that improved their abilities in:
- Communication: Essential for collaboration and client engagement
- Teamwork: Building the capacity to work effectively in diverse teams
- Problem-solving: Training focused on critical thinking and adaptive strategies in fast-paced work environments
This focus on soft skills, alongside technical training, reflects the programme’s broader objective of producing well-rounded professionals who can navigate the modern workplace.
Boosting Confidence and Career Prospects
Participants of the DigiGap 5.0 Programme were overwhelmingly positive about their experience, with many reporting a boost in their confidence and career prospects. The hands-on approach, combined with mentoring from industry professionals, allowed them to gain insights into the expectations and challenges of working in tech.
Olowojoba noted that the programme’s impact goes beyond just training. “It’s about giving these young people the tools to change their lives and become key contributors to the economy,” he said. This holistic approach prepares participants not just for jobs but for creating innovative solutions within the digital economy.
Expanding the Programme for Future Impact
Looking ahead, both Access Corporation and NerdzFactory Foundation have pledged to expand the DigiGap Programme in future editions. This includes increasing the number of participants, diversifying the range of skills offered, and exploring partnerships that can drive greater social innovation in Nigeria’s tech sector.
The goal is to ensure that more young Nigerians gain access to these invaluable learning opportunities, enabling them to take their place in a rapidly evolving global market. With initiatives like DigiGap, the country is investing in the next generation of tech leaders and innovators.
