The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tertiary Education, is set to launch the second phase of the Digital Capabilities Skills programme for students in state-owned tertiary institutions.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to boost digital literacy and prepare students for the demands of an evolving job market, especially in a world increasingly shaped by technology.
Read also: Teens World Foundation launches SkillXplore cohort to empower young innovators
Equipping students for a digital future
Announcing the initiative on Monday, October 21, the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, highlighted the programme’s aim to equip over one million young people in Lagos with essential digital skills by 2030. The goal is to enhance their employability, broaden their opportunities, and strengthen their capabilities in a competitive work environment.
According to Hon. Sule, the programme, themed “Maximising the Transforming Capabilities of Artificial Intelligence in the 21st Century Workplace”, will focus on training in entrepreneurial development and core digital skills. The initiative aims to ensure that students gain proficiency in advanced technology and tools that foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are vital in today’s job market.
Moving beyond conventional learning
Hon. Sule emphasised that the training programme is designed to address the limitations of traditional role-based education, which often leaves graduates struggling to convert their academic knowledge into practical skills needed in the job market. He noted that many young graduates face challenges adapting to the evolving demands of modern workplaces, making it harder to secure employment.
“This programme offers a shift from the conventional learning methods, aiming to produce graduates who can thrive in today’s dynamic employment landscape,” he explained.
The programme’s emphasis on digital literacy is particularly crucial as businesses increasingly prioritise employees with digital skills, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and technology. By incorporating hands-on training in artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools, the initiative seeks to close the gap between academic knowledge and the practical expertise required by employers.
Read also: NITDA DG calls for Africa’s active participation in AI governance
Programme details and participating institutions
The three-week training session will run from October 26th to November 12th, 2024, and will feature sessions led by industry experts and leaders from various economic sectors. Participating institutions include Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Lagos State College of Health Technology (LASCOHET), and Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON).
Hon. Sule added that the collaboration with these institutions is aimed at ensuring that students receive training that is directly relevant to the needs of the job market. The programme is expected to set a high standard in digital skills training, aligning with global best practices. It also aims to provide a broader range of employment opportunities for young graduates from Lagos state-owned tertiary institutions, positioning them for success in the digital age.
By the end of the programme, participants are expected to have a clearer understanding of how to apply AI and digital tools in real-world scenarios, making them more competitive in the job market.