The US government is committed to funding initiatives that give young people in Nigeria access to top-notch technical learning opportunities.
According to Will Stevens, the consul general of the consulate general in Lagos State, who spoke at the Digital Expert Academy's ceremonial launch in Lagos on Monday.
Stevens emphasised the significance of tech skills to Nigeria's future development and economic competitiveness while speaking on the theme of "Technology as an Enabler and Tool for Empowerment."
He claims that the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa, led by President Joe Biden, wants to promote digital transformation and a digital ecosystem based on open, interoperable, dependable, and secure information and communication technologies.
“This initiative is investing in some of Nigeria’s richest resources – its young people. We hope that by developing local talent in tech fields, we help accelerate medium and long-term growth in Nigeria’s and indeed Africa’s digital economy,” Stevens said.
On his part, the Chairman of 21st Century Technologies Group, Wale Ajisebutu, explained that the Digital Expert Academy will help bridge the gap between youth and employers by better connecting young people with the changing needs of the private sector and the skills needed to succeed in the digital economy.
Noting that the academy will partner with leading American tech companies such as Microsoft and Oracle to provide trainees with world-class learning opportunities, he said it is open to youth who are at least 18 years of age with a minimum of a high school diploma.
Present at the event were representatives from leading American tech companies, and Nigerian technology and business leaders.
The U.S. Mission supports Nigeria’s burgeoning tech scene & programs that upskill emerging tech talents.