In a bid to equip young minds with the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital age, the led Administration of Hon. Rasaq Ajala, Executive Chairman of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, held a graduation ceremony for the ICT training program for primary and secondary school students yesterday, 5th of September.

The program aimed to bridge the digital divide and provide students with hands-on experience in computer programming, software applications, and other essential ICT skills.

A student of the ICT training centre who made the Local Government proud during the NYCN program was given a phone as a prize by the Executive Chairman.

The Executive Chairman of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon. Rasaq Ajala, emphasized the importance of ICT skills in today’s digital age. In his speech, he highlighted the need to equip children with the right skills and knowledge to make them globally competitive.

According to Hon. Ajala, “We are in a digital age, and as we are all aware, ICT has become a cornerstone of development, innovation, and progress. So, if we want our children to be progressive, we must train them with the right skills and knowledge that will make them compliant with what is obtainable in today’s world.”

ICT Training ProThe LCDA organized a two-week intensive ICT training program for over 250 participants, including primary and secondary school students. The program aimed to prepare children for the digital age, regardless of their school background. Hon. Ajala noted that most of the participants are kids, children, and youth who may not have the privilege of attending private institutions.

Hon. Ajala stated that the program’s ultimate objective is to make participants proficient in ICT, enabling them to compete with their counterparts from private institutions. He emphasized that ICT compliance is crucial, even for professionals, to remain relevant in today’s digital age.

“We are not training them to be professionals, but we are training them to be proficient in ICT. So, that they can have a better opportunity. There are a lot of opportunities out there, so they can have a better opportunity, most especially by the time they are through with their university education.”

The program provides an opportunity for residents to acquire ICT skills, making them more competitive in the job market. Participants will have a better chance of succeeding in interviews, where ICT proficiency is often a requirement. Hon. Ajala noted that one of the questions often asked in interviews is, “How proficient are you in ICT? Are you a computer literate or not?”

The LCDA plans to continue the ICT training program, with the next session scheduled for November or December. The program will be held twice a year, with the aim of empowering more youth with ICT skills. Hon. Ajala encouraged participants to enroll in the LCDA’s ICT training program after the summer boot camp to further develop their ICT skills.

Hon. Ajala’s initiative demonstrates the LCDA’s commitment to empowering youth with essential skills for the digital age. By providing access to ICT training, the LCDA is bridging the gap between public and private school students, ensuring that all residents have an equal opportunity to succeed.

Amb. Mustapha Yaqub, the administrative officer of the Ilupeju ICT workstation, noted that the program had 320 applicants but successful candidates were selected, provided hands-on practical experiences in general computing, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and typing practice. Additionally, a special session was organized for extracurricular activities, such as sports competitions.

Yaqub urged winners to remain dedicated and focused, while encouraging those who did not win to continue working hard. He also urged parents to support and mentor their children, acknowledging the chairman’s initiatives and expressing confidence in his ability to do more.

Muftau Fathia, one of the top-performing students in the secondary category, has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Chairman of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon. Rasaq Ajala, for the ICT training opportunity provided to her and other students.

Fathia, who already had a basic understanding of computer skills, noted that she didn’t face significant challenges during the training. However, she acknowledged that the training helped her learn more and improve her skills.

Olaniran Olamiposi, a participant in the primary category of shared his experience and progress made during the training.

Olaniran said, “I was able to learn lots of things, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Through Mavis Bicon, I’ve been able to learn how to type with the keyboard, among other great features of the computer.”

Olaniran expressed his appreciation to the Chairman of Odiolowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon. Rasaq Ajala, for providing the opportunity and to his tutors for their dedication and hard work.