The Edo State Government has flagged off a six-month Advanced Job Ready Tech Skills Training in collaboration with Google and DeepTech Ready in Benin, aimed at empowering youths with digital skills.
The programme was officially launched on Wednesday, with the state government expressing readiness to support participants who complete the training to move closer to their career goals.
Speaking at the flag-off, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to preparing young people for opportunities in the digital space. The event featured an exhibition by Miss Elizabeth Chioma Chiketarauba, a 400-level Mechatronics Engineering student of the University of Benin, who showcased a solar-powered tricycle she invented.
Chiketarauba explained that the idea came after she experienced a seizure while attempting to board a commercial bus due to smoke pollution. She said the tricycle was designed as a cleaner alternative and added that it has the capacity to charge mobile phones, power a home, and support small businesses.
Dr. Iyamu praised the innovation and announced a N1 million support package for the student on behalf of the Edo State Government. He urged students across the state to think creatively and develop practical solutions to problems.
On the broader digital skills drive, the commissioner disclosed that the governor had approved a revamp of the state tech hub to strengthen training delivery. He added that no fewer than 25 Computer-based Test CBT centres would be created.
According to him, about 800 youths, most of them students, are expected to benefit from the programme. He encouraged interested students to take advantage of the opportunity.
“We are going to be certifying about 800 of our students in tech skills so that we can give them the opportunity in the international space,” Iyamu said.
“We are going to be doing a serious drive in terms of Computer-based Test CBT centres, so that we can put students to learn so that they can also compete anywhere in the world,” he added.
