The Federal Government of Nigeria and a renowned global online platform, Coursera have gone into partnership to train Nigeria citizens on digital skills.
In a statement sighted on ncc.gov.ng by CAPITAL POST in Abuja, said the partnership was intended to empower 24,000 Nigerians with essential digital and developer skills across various fields over the next three years.
The training was officially inaugurated on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), on Wednesday, October 19, 2023. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing practical skills over theoretical knowledge, Professor Pantami stated, “We are championing a paradigm shift by focusing on hard, soft, and social skills. This collaboration will greatly support our endeavors. Coursera, with its vast collection of courses from leading Universities and companies, has consistently provided the global society with the education and resources needed to build and sustain digital systems.”
Professor Pantami underscored the government’s dedication to digitally empowering Nigerian citizens and positioning them for the fourth industrial revolution. He highlighted the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Microsoft, which aims to train five million Nigerians in various technology fields. This initiative aligns with the Nigeria Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) document, which outlines the requirements for digital transformation in the country.
Expressing his satisfaction with the partnership, the Honourable Minister urged Coursera to expand its presence in Nigeria, particularly within the academic sector. He acknowledged Coursera’s existing partnership with Covenant University, one of Nigeria’s top private universities, and credited it for the institution’s exceptional reputation. Professor Pantami requested that Coursera engage with more academic institutions, at least one in each geo-political zone, to bring their expertise to the identified environments.
The Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, spearheading this collaboration under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), demonstrates the commitment of the Nigerian government to advancing digital skills and capabilities. By partnering with Coursera, the government aims to provide Nigerians with access to world-class online courses and opportunities to thrive in the digital age. This partnership will undoubtedly contribute to the nation’s growth and progress in the digital realm.
