In its effort to boost digital literacy among the youth between ages 10 to 18 in Ondo state, the state government in partnership with the federal ministry of communications and digital economy has commenced training of about 120 secondary school students across the state at the Public Service Training Institute,Ilara Mokin.
Declaring the weeklong program tagged “Build-A-thon holiday bootcamp” open, Ondo state Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said Information and communications technology(ICT) has become a critical tool for economic growth, innovation and social development.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami,the Governor said there is dire need for the training of students on digital technology and elementary IT skills,in order to expose them to the global integration space.
According to the Governor, “this boot camp program will help to promote digital literacy and empower young technology enthusiasts, it will also inspire new generation of entrepreneurs in the technology ecosystem while providing a conducive environment to explore new field of ICT technology, foster innovation and engender a workplace that unites developers, designers and entrepreneurs.”
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Laolu Akindolire described the training as a launchpad for the participants to become ICT natives in the rapid changing world. He also commended the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) for the training,saying technology is at the forefront especially now that artificial intelligence is contributing immensely to the world’s economic growth.
Welcoming the participants,SSA to the Governor on ICT, Hon. Tomide Akinribido said the objective of the training is to ensure that every student who goes through the program is inspired to develop interest in the field of technology.
As he put it, “introducing young ones to digital literacy and IT skills at secondary school levels indicates that the state is laying a good foundation for a purposeful future and preparing the ground for the next generation of tech leaders and innovators”
Other important dignitaries at the occasion include the Permanent Secretary, State Information Technology Agency (SITA) Dr (Mrs) Folukemi Aladenola, Permanent Secretary, PSTI, Dr. Sesan Asere, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs Folashade Adegoke represented by Mr. Francis Omooluwa.
Sola Obagbemisoye
Press Officer,
State Information Technology Agency(SITA).
August 19th,2024.