Jigawa State Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has sponsored over 500 students in a strategic initiative to equip its youth with modern digital skills.
Governor Umar Namadi stated this during the Induction Ceremony and Presentation of Admission Letters to beneficiaries of the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) Programme in Jigawa State.
Malam Umar Namadi reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic growth through digital innovation and skill acquisition.
“Today, we are graduating 240 students who have learned how to improve their nano businesses for sustainable growth. These 240 successful students have undergone training on how to enhance their small businesses to ensure sustainability,” the governor stated.
“Again, today, we are handing over admission letters to 550 students who have gained admission through the Employment and Empowerment Agency, in collaboration with the World Bank, Arms of Ideas, and the government.”
According to him, the students, who have secured admission to Baze University, will be trained in technology-driven fields that are shaping the future global workforce.
Governor Namadi said under the programme, the Jigawa State Government and the World Bank have jointly invested over 100 million Naira in the initiative, ensuring access to quality education and skill development.
“This funding is a joint effort between the World Bank and the Jigawa State Government. The World Bank has contributed 85 million Naira, while the government has contributed 50 million Naira, and this amount has already been paid.”
He further explained that, the programme will give the students the opportunity to study artificial intelligence, block chain technology, business intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, and software engineering.
In addition to the technology training, the governor also announced the graduation of 240 youth entrepreneurs who have successfully completed a business training program aimed at improving their small-scale enterprises, adding that each graduate will receive a 50,000 Naira seed capital to help them expand and sustain their businesses.
Governor Namadi, therefore, encouraged the students to take full advantage of this opportunity and assured them of further incentives for academic excellence.
“I urge you to work hard to achieve this goal. Any student who graduates with upper credit or distinction will receive a new laptop to support their future endeavors!”
He further reaffirmed his administration’s support for digital transformation and economic empowerment in Jigawa State, assuring the youth that more policies and programs will be introduced to enhance their livelihoods and professional development.
“We strongly believe that the best way we can support you is by empowering you. Therefore, we will continue to do so, enabling you to contribute your quota to the development of Jigawa State.”
COV/USMAN MZ
