In efforts to mitigate skill gaps, Ijesa Global Alliance for Development (IGAD), under the auspices of Ijesha Digital Hub has trained a total of 48 people in various technological skills following the completion of the program.

This commendable efforts was delivered by the Keynote speaker and member of the Board of Trustees of Ijesa Global Alliance for Development (IGAD), Sir Aladekomo, Chairman of SmartCity Resorts Plc and founder of Chams Plc during a graduation ceremony of 17 graduates from first cohort  who are now to receive job offers.

According to him, he revealed that the graduation ceremony marks the achievements of 48 trainees who completed intensive training in various digital disciplines including 10 in UI/UX Design, 23 in Cybersecurity, and 15 in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning.

He noted that the graduates have been equipped with cutting-edge skills and knowledge and recognized professional certificates in their respective digital domains.

Also, Dr Cornelius Adewale, Executive Director of Ijesha Global Alliance for Development (IGAD) quoted as to have said in a statement that the aimed of the initiative was prepared and equipped the young ones for the opportunities to build their tomorrow.

“The immediate job opportunities for our trainees are a testament to the hub’s commitment to providing skills development training today so that participants can build tomorrow. We are proud of the engagement framework, training delivery, monitoring mechanism, and effective assessment we have developed. This initiative has the potential to transform Nigeria into a digital economy powerhouse.”

Prince Abimbola Olashore, chairman of IGAD, added that, “The success of the first cohort of Ijesha Digital Hub underscores the significant role that targeted training programs play in addressing the skills gap in the Nigerian tech industry. The job placements of these graduates not only validate the quality of the training provided but also highlight the growing demand for skilled professionals in UI/UX Design, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning.”

Dr. Adewale Alonge, Vice President of IGAD, further emphasised the broader impact of this achievement while describing it as timely.

“This milestone demonstrates the effectiveness of our comprehensive training approach and the dedication of our trainees. By equipping them with relevant skills, we are not only empowering individuals but also contributing to the overall growth and development of the tech sector in Nigeria.”

Dr. Alonge noted that the achievement of the mission of the Hub would not have been possible without the dedication, commitment and leadership of the domain leaders, Dr: Adewale Obadare, Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode, for Cybersecurity, assisted by Mr. Tunji Igbalajobi, Mr. Ebenezer Ajayi (AI/ Machine Learning), Mr. Femi Bakare (UI/UX Design) and their team of mentors and instructors.

The event was chaired by Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi, the Asiwaju of Ijeshaland, who delivered remarks celebrating the achievements of the graduates and the impact of the Innovation Hub on the local community and beyond.

The 48 graduates have achieved a minimum of one professional certificate (some have two or more) in their digital specialization and are poised for leadership positions in the digital transformation of the Nigerian economy.

One of the highlights of the event was the announcement of the launching soon of a N100 million digital infrastructure fund for the “1000 Digital Workforce in 24 months” project, by US-based Engineering Professor, Olu Olowokere.

Dr. Babatunde Ojo, IGAD’s secretary and clinical medical director based in North Carolina, USA presented special awards to the six top graduates from the graduating class.