The Director General of the Nasarawa State Information Technology and Digital Economy Agency, Haruna Sani Sani, has paid a courtesy visit to the Nasarawa State Vocational and Relevant Technology Board, where he emphasized the need for stronger collaboration to grow digital skills and improve the impact of technology across the state. During the engagement, he explained that agencies must work more closely and showcase the value in their sectors to create a stronger digital ecosystem. According to him, expanding strategic thinking will help more stakeholders understand the importance of technology in education and economic growth.
He stated that institutions will be more willing to send their students for information technology training when they see clarity, proper structure, and measurable results. The DG encouraged the Board to procure laptops, upgrade its capacity, and keep proper records of activities to support better planning and service delivery. He also advised the Board to intensify awareness campaigns and create a platform that highlights its initiatives, saying this will guide individuals toward productive ideas that can create value for themselves and the state.
Speaking on current digital demands, he noted that setting up an ICT laboratory has become necessary to align with modern trends. He added that NASITDEA is preparing to train staff and selected students on the Internet of Things. He said, “When we complete this first phase, we will invite the Board to send its staff to participate so that we can begin deeper collaboration.”
Responding, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Engr. Kasimu Hamidu, expressed appreciation for the guidance provided. He said students from the Federal University of Lafia regularly visit for practical training, noting that Thursdays are currently set aside for them and that an additional training day is being considered. He added that the Board remains open to partnerships that will help revive ICT development across the state.
Engr. Hamidu explained that the Board runs two main programmes, one for vocational students and another for individuals seeking skills either before or after graduation. He disclosed that the Board has written to Governor Abdullahi A. Sule requesting 20 desktop computers to strengthen technology training and improve service delivery.
The meeting ended with both agencies expressing readiness to begin immediate collaboration, starting with staff training and strengthening ICT facilities to support digital skills development across the state.
