By Babatunde Ayedoju

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The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has stressed the commitment of his administration to the revolutionary technological advancement of the state, which he described as an integral part of the OUR EASE agenda of his government.

The governor made this assertion while flagging off the training of 500 youths on information and communication technology (ICT) organised by the Ondo State Government in collaboration with Nigeria German Centre for Migration and Development (GIZ-ZME) on Thursday at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), Akure.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Olaide Adelami, described the event as a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving transformational change, saying that his administration had been partnering with relevant agencies to ensure that youths in Ondo State were equipped with needed ICT skills.

He said, ” This training programme is unique, not only because of the cutting-edge innovative skills it offers, but also because it is designed to be inclusive. It will cut across all the three senatorial districts in Ondo State, ensuring that no part of Ondo State is left behind, irrespective of location.

“This inclusivity is a deliberate and strategic decision to ensure that every part of the state benefits maximally and equally from the dividends of good governance, as we have ensured that the administrative process with the shortlisting and participation was merit-based.”

Aiyedatiwa, while saying that the programme aligned with the blueprint of his administration, reminded the participants that the training would not only enhance their employability, competitiveness and access to remote job opportunities, but also prepare them to become job creators and entrepreneurs.

While extending his appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the training exercise, the governor admonished the trainees to take advantage of the opportunity provided for them by the training.

His words: “Dear trainees, I want to challenge you to embrace this opportunity with both hands. The knowledge and skills you will acquire in the next four weeks can transform your lives, your families and your communities. I urge you to approach this training with the dedication and commitment it deserves.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor on ICT, Tomide Akinribido, stressed that the importance of digital literacy cannot be overemphasised, adding that the present administration has prioritised the equipment of young minds with prerequisite ICT skills to thrive in the 21st century.

He said, “We are laying a strong foundation for a purposeful future, not just for our youths but the state, by equipping youths with necessary ICT skills needed to thrive in a modern world. To the participants, I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity. The skills you will acquire will be the tools needed for your development and the development of our state.”

In her goodwill message, the Ondo State Controller, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mrs. Adenike Mogboruko, commended Ondo State Government and GIZ for their collaboration towards making this initiative a reality, adding that it is in line with the national economic policy of the Federal Government to curb unemployment and foster decent work.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Benedict Gbayisemore, thanked all those who worked behind the scene to make the programme a reality and congratulated the participants who emerged out of over 2000 youths applicants.

Gbayisemore who assured that all hope was not lost for those who could not make it, stressed that the present administration is committed to addressing youth unemployment and underemployment through ICT, which he described as a veritable tool.

Component Manager of the GIZ-ZME, Ayomikun Olugbode, said that the German agency is interested in equipping young Nigerians with the right skills to seek employment both in Nigeria and elsewhere.

He said that the organisation had been partnering with Ondo State Government for the past five years and would continue to collaborate with the state government towards empowering the youths.