Abuja, Nigeria – The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is undergoing a significant digital conversion, announced today by Director-General Dr. Musa Kumo Ogun, aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing skills advancement across Nigeria.
Dr. Ogun revealed that all internal and inter-departmental communications, alongside official correspondence, will now be conducted electronically. This move is intended to accelerate response times, improve record-keeping accuracy, and foster greater collaboration between departments. “This shift is expected to improve response times, ensure accurate documentation, and enhance interdepartmental collaboration. This is a bold step toward building a modern, forward-thinking institution ready to meet the demands of a dynamic global economy,” Dr. ogun stated.
The digitization initiative extends beyond communication. The ITF has commenced a project to digitize and archive all records and documents dating back to 2019, improving accessibility and operational efficiency. This builds on the ITF’s broader strategy to automate systems and processes, aligning with international best practices. The ITF, established in 1971 via Decree No. 47, has a mandate to provide, assemble and promote vocational training in Nigeria.
To facilitate this transition, Dr. Ogun announced the rollout of tablets and digital access to supervisory cadres, including Heads of Divisions and Sub-units. This aims to bring the ITF in line with modern office practices and global standards for similar agencies. The ITF currently operates training centers in all 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital territory, abuja.
During a keynote address focused on “Developing Effective Strategies for Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Implementation: Opportunities and Challenges,” Dr. Ogun outlined a two-pronged policy focused on enhancing skills development,improving personnel efficiency,work processes,and staff welfare. The SUPA initiative specifically targets artisans, providing them with updated skills and certifications to meet industry demands.
“We are not reinventing the wheel but are committed to fully utilising our mandate to better serve Nigeria and increase our visibility,” Dr. Ogun concluded. The ITF’s annual budget for 2023 was approximately ₦50 billion (approximately $65 million USD), with a significant portion allocated to skills development programs and infrastructure upgrades.
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