The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has unveiled its plan to unravel the Computer Science programs at polytechnics in Nigeria, thus paving the way for the country to address its existing Information Technology (IT) skills deficiency. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has stated that this move positions Nigeria to effectively bridge the IT skills gap. Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the Head of Corporate Affairs and External Relations at the Agency, disclosed this information.
She asserted this on January 14, 2024, through an official statement issued by the organization. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with CC Hub, conducted an IT Skills Gap Assessment, revealing a comprehensive list of 12 highly sought-after IT skills that are in demand not only within Nigeria but also internationally, as mentioned in the statement. Infrastructure, Software Engineering, and Cyber Security will help to address the specific skill gaps in the IT industry.
There is a profound opportunity to foster the growth of skilled Nigerians.
This move will empower students to focus on their specific areas of interest and expertise. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) highlighted the significance of this division, which will pave the way for a more specialized workforce, better equipped to meet the demands of the ever-evolving technological landscape. NITDA expressed its appreciation to the NBTE for successfully executing the modification, as stated in their official statement. The bold step taken by Nigeria is more than just a revolutionary action in the field of Information Technology (IT).
It signifies a monumental change in preparing Nigerian graduates with the essential skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving digital era. By locating polytechnics at the focal point, there is a profound opportunity to foster the growth of skilled, ready-to-confront young Nigerians who possess the capability to effectively address distinct hurdles and exploit the immense prospects brought about by the advent of new technologies. The future of Nigeria’s IT sector rests upon the remarkable possibilities offered by Artificial Intelligence.
These skills are designed with a specific purpose in mind.
Also, Nigeria’s IT sector rests on Network and Cloud Computing, Software, and Web Development, along with Cybersecurity and Data Protection, according to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). To fully embrace this potential, NITDA has taken decisive steps by launching the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI). These skills are designed with a specific purpose in mind: to foster the growth of talented individuals and provide interns and corps members with the necessary expertise to thrive in their digital endeavours.
Furthermore, the assertion highlights that NITDA perceives this as a momentous advancement towards fostering the expansion of the IT industry and amplifying the proficiencies of the country’s labour force. In order to ensure the successful implementation of these specialized fields, it is crucial for educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to come together and prioritize collaboration, as stressed by the Agency On January 8, 2024, a letter from Prof. Idris Bugaje, the Executive Director of NBTE, reached the desks of all Polytechnic heads and relevant institutions, revealing ground-breaking news.
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In an effort to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of the IT industry, Bugaje declared the unbundling of Computer Science programs. This maneuver aimed to bring these institutions in alignment with the latest trends in the field. Four courses were set afloat, heralding a profound shift in the educational approach taken by these establishments. In the letter’s contents, it has been mentioned that the students who have already secured admission into the erstwhile Computer Science program will undergo a gradual discontinuation process by the year 2025.