Google has announced its Intention to Train 20,000 Nigerian Women and Youth in Digital skills. Additionally, it plans to Allocate a Grant of 1.2 billion Naira (equivalent to $1.6 million) to aid the Government in generating one million Digital Jobs within the Country.
This disclosure was made by Google’s Executives in Africa on Tuesday.
The Nigerian Government, in a bid to provide Employment Opportunities for its sizable Youth population, had Discussions with Google Africa Executives in Abuja.
Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed the Government’s ambition to create Digital Jobs, though he refrained from Specifying a timeline for the Initiative.
To facilitate this Program, Google’s Philanthropic division will collaborate with Data Science Nigeria and the Creative Industry Initiative for Africa to offer the Grant.
Shettima highlighted that Google’s Initiative aligns with the Government’s Commitment to enhancing Youth Involvement in the Digital Economy.
He also noted ongoing Cooperation with the Nation’s Banks for this project.
Shettima expressed the President’s aspiration to establish a Legacy that brings Pride to Nigerians for years to come.
Vice President Shettima underscored the Potential Inherent in Nigeria’s young populace, emphasizing the Opportunity to generate numerous Digital Sector Jobs.
He pointed out that the Nation’s abundance of English speakers and its shift into the knowledge-driven post-industrial age provides a unique chance to address the projected Global Talent shortage.
In the realm of Digital Skills, Access Bank is taking strides by training 1000 youths for Employment Opportunities.
Collaboration with Wema Bank, the Bank of Industry, and other Partners is underway.
Shettima conveyed a Willingness to Collaborate with Google for the betterment of the Nation.
Olumide Balogun, Google’s Director for West Africa, affirmed the Company’s Commitment to Finance the endeavor and equip Nigerian Women and Youth with Digital Skills.
This effort is expected to Foster startup growth, Ultimately leading to Job creation.
During the meeting, Charles Murito, Google Africa’s Director of Government Relations and Public Policy, highlighted the Company’s dedication to Investing in Digital Infrastructure throughout Africa.
He emphasized that Digital Transformation holds the potential to enable Job creation.
