Benue State teams up with Google to train 10,000 youths in ICT

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has announced a new partnership with Google aimed at training 10,000 youths across the state in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This initiative, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, is designed to equip young people with the necessary skills to excel in the digital economy, ultimately creating new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.

Governor Alia underscored the importance of this ICT training program, noting that it aims to empower Benue’s youth by providing them with the tools needed to navigate and succeed in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. “In collaboration with Google, we have begun the training of 10,000 young people in ICT. This program is intended to arm them with the skills required to compete in the digital economy, thereby unlocking numerous opportunities,” he stated.

Additionally, Governor Alia addressed the issue of rising criminality among the youth, urging those involved in drug abuse, cultism, internet fraud (often referred to as ‘Yahoo-Yahoo’), and other social vices to abandon these activities and embrace more positive pathways. “I call on the youths involved in various forms of criminality in the state to lay down their arms, embrace peace, and make better life choices,” he urged.

Beyond the ICT training, the governor also revealed other youth-focused initiatives aimed at fostering development in Benue State. He announced the forthcoming participation of Benue youths in the UN Volunteer Scheme, a program sponsored by the state government in collaboration with the United Nations. Additionally, the state is constructing a fashion hub designed to inspire creativity and generate employment opportunities, helping to nurture a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs from Benue.

Governor Alia emphasized the administration’s dedication to youth development, highlighting that these efforts are key to the broader development of Benue State. “We recognize that investing in our youth is essential for the growth of Benue State. This is why we are implementing several initiatives aimed at empowering you and creating opportunities for your future,” he affirmed.

Moreover, this initiative aligns with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) Digital Job Creation for Youths (DJCY) program, which is part of the National Digital Economic Policy and Strategy (NDEPS 2020-2030). The DJCY program focuses on providing digital skills and business development training to youths across Nigeria, with over 2,000 participants already benefiting. The current phase includes the training of an additional 600 youths, who also receive laptops, internet connectivity tools, and support for their entrepreneurial ventures.