Mahmood Owolabi, Co-founder of the UK-based Transition School, recently emphasised the growing need for Nigerians to explore career opportunities within the Technology industry. Speaking at a media roundtable, Owolabi emphasised the transformative potential of technology in addressing key challenges in the country’s growing expanding economy, particularly in Education and workforce development. Owolabi emphasised that the technology sector presents an opportunity for transforming career ideals for nations such as Nigeria, which is witnessing population expansion and urgent demand for adaptable educational resources.
He noted that as Africa continues to gain recognition globally, investing in educational technology (EdTech) is a way to meet immediate challenges and a vital strategy for long-term success. According to Owolabi, the digital industry is key to driving Innovation and creating job opportunities in the country. He pointed out that the demand for skilled tech professionals is increasing globally, allowing people to secure high-demand roles and transform industries. He also acknowledged the challenges within the traditional education system, which often struggles to keep pace with the growing number of students.
Owolabi emphasised how digital skills can unlock new career opportunities.
In this regard, he pointed out that EdTech offers a means to close these disparities, enhancing the accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness of education. Owolabi explained that EdTech is more than just a means of education; it’s a pathway to the future of work. As industries embrace digital transformation, the demand for IT skills will only rise. Owolabi believes preparing for this change is essential for individuals and the country. By equipping more people with digital skills, the country can better position itself for Economic Growth and greater global competitiveness.
However, Owolabi offers valuable perspectives; with experience in the Nigerian and UK job markets, he has observed how technology competencies can create new career opportunities and enable people to explore global opportunities. Transition School focuses on providing students with practical, in-demand skills to improve their employability in local and international markets. Moreover, Transition School has made notable progress in this regard. The institution has trained over 100 students and prepared them with the necessary abilities to succeed in a global job market. According to Owolabi, these graduates secure jobs and play a vital role in Economic Development due to their acquired skills.
Multiple industries offer opportunities for skilled IT professionals.
Furthermore, he emphasised that the program’s achievement reflects an increasing necessity for technology-based educational frameworks that address the requirements of today’s job market. Owolabi encouraged more people across the country to take advantage of these careers and explore job possibilities within the online field, which he called a transformative power-altering industry globally. He noted that technology positions are no longer limited to traditional IT roles; they extend into multiple fields, such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, and education. By acquiring digital competencies, people can access a wide range of career options that provide opportunities for advancement and security.
As a result, he also called for increased Investment in EdTech, noting that it can potentially address many of the education system’s challenges. EdTech, he argued, is not only about making learning more accessible but also about ensuring that education is aligned with the future of work. By incorporating digital into education, students can better prepare themselves for the Digital Economy and its opportunities. Owolabi added that the importance of innovation in driving economic growth cannot be overstated. He emphasised that countries globally recognise the value of digital transformation and invest heavily in tech-driven initiatives.
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Lastly, he said Nigeria must adopt the strategy by investing in education and skills development, particularly in the innovation sector. Doing so will improve employability and help the country compete more effectively globally. With the number of people increasing every day, the demand for innovative, technology-based approaches in education and workforce enhancement is set to rise. Owolabi emphasises that by leveraging the potential of the innovative industry, Nigerians can prepare themselves for success in the global market. With his extensive background and achievements at Transition School, Owolabi offers valuable guidance for individuals and policymakers on utilising innovation for economic and career development.