NITDA and Cisco Partner with NSUK to Launch Digital Literacy Initiative, Empowering Students for the Future
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA November, 2024 - The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with Cisco and Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has launched the Digital Literacy for All Initiative (DL4ALL) to integrate digital literacy into NSUK’s curriculum. This initiative, under NITDA's National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF), aligns with the presidential target of achieving 70% digital literacy among Nigerians by 2027.
Speaking at the launch, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, described the event as a pivotal moment in the journey to building a robust digital ecosystem. He emphasized the collaboration between industry, academia, and government as a cornerstone for producing digitally proficient graduates ready to excel in the workforce, rather than merely holding degrees.
“In today’s digital world, literacy is no longer optional. It is essential for economic and financial inclusion. This initiative ensures students are equipped with the fluency needed to navigate and thrive in a digital environment,” Inuwa said.
Inuwa highlighted Africa’s unique opportunity to address the projected global talent shortage of 85 million workers by 2030, a gap that could lead to $8.5 trillion in unrealized annual revenue. With a digitally skilled workforce, Nigeria can not only meet domestic needs but also contribute globally.
The DL4ALL initiative focuses on core competencies such as device and software operation, data literacy, digital content creation, collaboration, safety, and problem-solving. These skills will empower students to leverage technology effectively, create content, solve real-world problems, and collaborate across institutions.
Additionally, the program supports entrepreneurship by encouraging students to develop business ventures before graduation. According to Inuwa, the initiative fosters innovation, stating, “With technology, your only limitation is your imagination.”
NSUK’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sadaatu Hassan Liman, described the partnership as transformative. She highlighted the initiative’s potential to empower students with critical skills for the 21st century while positioning the university as a leader in ICT and emerging technologies.
“This program not only empowers our students but also creates opportunities for them to develop innovative mindsets, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for the evolving digital landscape,” she remarked.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the DL4ALL emblem by dignitaries, marking a significant step towards achieving Nigeria’s digital literacy goals.
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