Nigerian Graduates urged to Embrace Digital Skills to Combat Unemployment
YABA, LAGOS – Nigerian graduates must prioritize acquiring digital skills to thrive in the evolving global economy and address the nation’s high unemployment rate, according to Senator Olufemi Lanlehin Bamidele. The call to action came during a lecture at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) on Thursday, attended by over 8,000 graduating students.
Bamidele emphasized the critical need for graduates to develop expertise in areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, digital manufacturing, fintech, cloud computing, and immersive technologies. He highlighted the role of the legislature in creating an enabling surroundings for young Nigerians to unlock opportunities within these emerging fields, noting the importance of digital skills for entrepreneurial advancement.
YABATECH Rector Ibraheem Abdul echoed this sentiment, stating the institution’s transition to a specialized University of Technology and Vocational Training is designed to bridge the digital skill gap within the country.”We are not only preparing our graduates for the future of work; we are equipping them to shape it,” abdul said, adding that the college aims to produce graduates who are job creators and leaders capable of leveraging technology for national development.
The lecture comes at a time when Nigerian graduates face important challenges in securing employment or establishing successful businesses. Despite completing their programs, many are confronted with limited opportunities and an uncertain future. Bamidele’s insights, according to Abdul, will “energise our resolve” to cultivate graduates who can convert challenges into economic value.
Charles Ogwo, a journalist covering education and business innovation, reported on the event for BusinessDay.
