To empower 500,000 Nigerians in two years, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has embraced the GSM village apprenticeship approach. This was revealed by Odusanya Olushola, the Director General of the National Centre for Technology Management, on behalf of Minister Uche Nnaji during the unveiling of ‘The TechAdvantage Nigeria Apprenticeship Workshop’ in Abuja. In February 2024, the government approved a project to empower Nigerians and generate two million job opportunities within a two-year timeframe through a strategic partnership.
In Nigeria, the GSM Village Apprenticeship Model offers a unique training opportunity for those looking to pursue a career as mobile phone technicians. Created to meet the high demand for skilled professionals in the field, this program equips individuals with the practical skills and knowledge needed to repair and maintain mobile phones, a prevalent technology in the country. Their goal is to explore the GSM village apprenticeships model as a unique approach to learning and its impact on both individual growth and societal development.
Participants will be equipped with marketable and beneficial skills.
Their mission is to empower individuals by imparting fresh insights to society and equipping them with valuable, marketable, and beneficial skills. They also focus on promoting a self-directed learning method that breaks away from traditional norms. It’s a cycle of spreading knowledge through personal experiences, creating a ripple effect of learning. This innovative educational model provides hands-on learning opportunities, fostering increased Productivity among individuals in society. The Minister’s leadership in this project shows promising potential for long-term environmental impact.
He explained that the program’s cyclical structure allows for the generation of funds from training initiatives, with any profits being redirected back into training new participants, establishing a self-perpetuating system. The collaboration between the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) and TechAdvantage runs deep, with the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology leading the program and NACETEM playing a key role in developing new educational approaches to equip individuals with skills in innovation, science, and technology.
Unemployment challenges in the nation will be solved.
During the event, Mr. Amu Ogbeide, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Sapphital Learning Limited, expressed their dedication to narrowing the skills deficit in Nigeria and fostering job prospects for its people. They have created an apprenticeship program that equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the technology sector. TechAdvantage initiative addresses the pressing issue of widespread joblessness in the nation and the demand for proficient workers within the tech field.
Through offering virtual Education and apprenticeship opportunities, the programme strives to engage a significant portion of the Nigerian population, particularly those residing in remote regions, to empower them with the necessary expertise to thrive in the international technology arena. Ogbeide expressed confidence that the program would have a dual impact, boosting job opportunities and fostering Economic Development in Nigeria. The Minister’s dedication and guidance on this project showcase its promise to create lasting positive effects on the environment and economy, illustrating a forward-thinking strategy to combat joblessness and improve technological advancements.
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Moreover, partnerships with Private Sector partners are essential for closing the skills gap in Nigeria. By working with industry experts, training programs are tailored to meet the needs of the market and keep up with new technologies. This can result in the training program benefitting from extra resources, fresh ideas, and practical knowledge, ultimately improving its effectiveness and relevance. Embracing diversity in the workplace fosters a more equal society and boosts Economic Growth by tapping into a wide range of talents and perspectives. This leads to increased Innovation and competitiveness on an international level.