Edo State digital drive has received a significant boost as 100 residents graduated from a training programme in Data Analysis with Power BI, which was organized by the Edo State Information Communications Technology Agency (ICTA) in partnership with Sidol Solutions Nigeria Limited and the PIP Community at the ICTA Head Office in Benin City.
According to the Managing Director of ICTA, Mr. Eghosa Urhoghide, the initiative forms part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s broader agenda to equip indigenes with in-demand technological skills and prepare them for opportunities in the global digital economy. He appreciated the Governor’s vision and reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to digital empowerment in the State.
In his words, “We have a Governor who is tech-inclined and who understands the value of ICT. The purpose of this training is to equip Edo people with in-demand digital skills. At ICTA, this is part of our mandate. That is why we are committed to ensuring that our citizens are equipped with the right skills to thrive in today’s digital world. We have children, youths, and older individuals who participated in this training. That is because inclusivity is essential to the State’s digital vision. The graduation events, where trainees showcased their projects, not only highlight the success of the initiatives but also serve as motivation for the Agency to sustain and expand its efforts”.
Mr. Urhoghide asserted that the success of the event clearly demonstrates how partnerships can positively impact the lives of people. “We are grateful to PIP Community and Sidol Solutions for joining hands with us to ensure the success of this initiative. We will continue to align with the Governor’s mandate to drive digital empowerment for everyone in Edo State. Over time, with more partnerships, we intend to expand into other platforms and digital skills”. He concluded.
The Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Corporate Change, Communication and Performance Management, Office of the Head of Service, Mrs. Joy Akigbe, noted that the State Government is not merely regulating the Digital Sector but actively facilitating technological growth. She added that the administration is building capacity across various sectors while equipping citizens with the insights necessary to succeed in a technology-driven world.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr. Johnathan Ukpebor, underscored the training as timely and rewarding. According to him, “We are in the era of technology, hence, it is necessary to equip our people with the skills required to thrive in today’s world”.
Participants described the training as an eye-opener, submitting that the knowledge acquired would have a lasting impact on their career trajectories. Many expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government and the Partners for providing the life-changing opportunity for them.
The ceremony climaxed with the hackathon, which formed the final stage of the training. Winners and runners-up were rewarded with cash prizes, underscoring the State Government’s commitment to fostering innovation and creativity among its people