The Federal Government and Wema Bank have announced a partnership to establish digital and skill innovation hubs across the country.
The initiative, FGN/ALAT Digital and SkillNovation Hub is to empower one million youths with digital and other relevant skills relevant to the emerging digital economy.
The new partnership emerged during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and the representatives of the bank in Abuja last week.
They said the programme is in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to creating more digital jobs for young Nigerians.
Speaking on the development, Wema Bank’s managing director and chief executive officer, Moruf Oseni, said the initiative was designed to revolutionise the way young entrepreneurs and employees interact with technology, entrepreneurship, and skill development.
“The Digital & SkillNovation Hub reflects our dedication to fostering a thriving ecosystem that empowers Tech-Savvy Youth Entrepreneurs, Youth Entrepreneurs by Nature, and Young Employees, driving economic growth and sustainable progress across the nation. This centralized platform will integrate cutting-edge digital tools, technologies, and resources to streamline digital activities, collaboration, and information sharing,” Oseni said.
Key information to note about the SkillNovation programme
- Digital & SkillNovation to open its first Hub in Lagos and Borno states.
- Another five Hubs in Katsina, Cross River, Anambra, Oyo, and Kano states respectively.
- The initiative aims to provide financial solutions, training, and access to strategic partnerships, empowering young employees to become an integral part of Nigeria’s workforce, especially those deployed through the NYSC.
- 500,000 SMEs across Nigeria to be mentored
- Coaches will provide training and upskilling for business growth.
- N500 million to be given to SMEs and technopreneurs
- One million young adults would be trained in software engineering, product management, business analysis, cloud computing, and product design, using specialised resources.
