MTN foundation launches free digital skills academy for Nigerian youths

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The MTN Foundation has launched a Digital Skills Academy to equip Nigerian youths with digital competencies, enhancing their employability and economic participation. The initiative aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to education, health, and economic empowerment.

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Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Mrs Odunayo Sanya, said, “We have developed a platform that is not only accessible but impactful, from guiding secondary school students through career-aligned psychometric tests to offering over 23 career learning paths.” She emphasised that understanding digital skills and technology is crucial for the youth, stating, “We believe that the person who understands digital skills and technology will eventually displace those who do not; that is why we are investing in building this capacity, especially for our youth.”

The goal is to reach underserved communities across Nigeria through partnerships with government and other stakeholders, with a long-term target of training at least three million Nigerians in five years. “We don’t want this to stay in Abuja, Lagos, or Port Harcourt. We want to reach Gombe, Akwa Ibom, and the rural corners of Nigeria,” Sanya added

Mr Simon Aranonu, a director in the foundation, described the initiative as a bold step toward democratising education and empowering individuals across the country. “We recognise that digital skills are an essential currency in the global job market; they shape the way we work and learn and challenge our ability to adapt and grow,” he said.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, commended the Foundation for the initiative, saying it is timely and critical to national development. “I commend the MTN Foundation for your vision, not only in launching this programme today but for everything you have done in supporting capacity development in our nation. The MTN Skills Academy will not only raise digital literacy but broaden the possibilities for youths in Nigeria,” he said. He called for more collaboration between public and private sectors to drive innovation and digital inclusion.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, represented by Mrs. Ebiho Agun, described the academy as a timely and strategic initiative to empower Nigerian youths with essential digital skills. “This launch is a call to action, a call to invest, and to innovate. The MTN Foundation Skills Academy is a bridge to opportunity and a spark for the next generation of Nigerian tech leaders,” he said.

The event drew participation from stakeholders across government, private sector, and civil society, all united in the mission to create a digitally empowered future for Nigerian youths.

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