Technology company, Microsoft, has stressed that digital skills development plays a key role in driving economic growth in Nigeria.
Ola Williams, Country Manager, Microsoft Nigeria, said this in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos recently.
Williams said Africa’s young population offers an opportunity to become a global hub for technology skills, but noted that it is important to close the digital skills gap.
Williams said that by 2030, Africa will account for one-fifth of the world’s workforce and one-third of the world’s youth workforce, making the development of digital skills essential.
“Digital literacy must be the starting point. Employers around the world are looking for workers with advanced digital skills, and 70% of demand will come from jobs outside of ICT specializations. .
“Microsoft Nigeria has launched several initiatives to address this challenge. Launched in 2021, the Global Skills Initiative has provided access to digital skills training to 196,000 learners in Nigeria. Ta.
“The company has also partnered with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Nigerian government to launch the Digital Nigeria e-learning platform.
“The platform has recorded 125,000 registered learners and 111,000 course completions,” she said.
Williams said Microsoft is focused on developing digital literacy, entrepreneurial skills and expertise in artificial intelligence (AI).
He also noted that Microsoft Nigeria is collaborating with local telecommunications providers such as MTN to provide free technical skills content to 4 million Nigerians.
“Their FAST Accelerator program, in partnership with Flapmax, aims to support startups and small businesses, providing them with cutting-edge technology, comprehensive skills development, and business development strategies.
“Microsoft Nigeria has also partnered with Zindi, Africa’s leading AI community, to improve digital skills across the continent,” she said.
Williams also noted the importance of developing AI skills, adding that AI is the defining technology at the moment.
Microsoft’s president said capturing just 10 percent of the global AI market could expand Africa’s economy by 50 percent.
He said the company’s efforts are consistent with the federal government’s efforts to promote the digital economy and innovation.
“Microsoft is committed to partnering with the Nigerian government to accelerate the country’s digital transformation, upskilling 5 million Nigerians and creating more than 27,000 new digital jobs.
“To date, our upskilling efforts have reached 1,164,815 people and earned 89,946 Microsoft certifications,” said Williams.
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