Benue State Partners with Google to Train 10,000 Youths in ICT, Empowering a New Generation for the Digital Economy

Benue State Partners with Google to Train 10,000 Youths in ICT, Empowering a New Generation for the Digital Economy
Image credit: Google 

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has underscored the importance of youth development in the state, highlighting a significant collaboration with Google. Through this partnership, 10,000 youths across Benue State will receive training in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This initiative is part of a broader strategy to equip young people with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy and open up new opportunities for them.

Addressing Youth Criminality in Benue State

Governor Alia took the opportunity to address the issue of criminality among the youth, urging those involved in drug abuse, cultism, internet fraud, and other social vices to embrace peace and make better choices. He emphasized that the ICT training program is not just about skill acquisition but also about steering youths away from negative influences. “I urge the youths who are involved in all kinds of criminality in the State to lay down their arms, embrace peace, and choose the right paths,” he said.

Additional Initiatives for Youth Empowerment

In addition to the ICT training, Governor Alia announced other youth development initiatives aimed at further supporting young people in Benue State. He revealed plans for some youths to participate in the UN Volunteer Scheme, a program sponsored in collaboration with the United Nations. Furthermore, a fashion hub is being constructed in the state to foster creativity and entrepreneurship among the youth. This hub is expected to create jobs and nurture a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs from Benue.

The Digital Job Creation for Youths (DJCY) Program

In a related development, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the Digital Job Creation for Youths (DJCY) program, which aligns with the National Digital Economic Policy and Strategy (NDEPS 2020-2030). This program aims to equip youths across Nigeria with essential digital skills to enhance their employability and foster self-employment. Over 2,000 youths have already benefited from the program, with 600 more currently undergoing training. Participants receive free accommodation, digital skills training, business development courses, laptops, and internet connectivity tools to support their entrepreneurial efforts.

Empowering Youths for a Brighter Future

Governor Alia emphasized that the development of the youth is crucial for the overall development of Benue State. He expressed his administration’s dedication to empowering young people and creating opportunities for their growth through various initiatives, including the ICT training in partnership with Google. “We understand that the development of our youth is a panacea for the development of Benue State,” Alia stated, reinforcing his commitment to youth empowerment in the state.