Digital Expert Academy Launches in Lagos, Nigeria to Equip Youths
The official opening of the Digital Expert Academy in Lagos was attended by US Consul General Will Stevens, representatives from leading American technology companies, and Nigerian technology and business leaders.
The Digital Expert Academy, founded by 21st Century Technologies, aims to train and upskill young Nigerians in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, machine learning, cloud services, data science, and data center management, among other tech fields.
In his keynote address on the theme “Technology as an Enabler and Tool for Empowerment,” Consul General Will Stevens stated that the United States government is committed to supporting programs that provide quality technological learning opportunities for youth. He emphasized the significance of technological skills to Nigeria’s future prosperity and economic competitiveness.
The Biden Administration’s U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa, according to Consul General Stevens, aims to drive digital transformation and foster a digital ecosystem based on open, interoperable, reliable, and secure internet and information and communication technology.
“This initiative invests in some of Nigeria’s most valuable resources – its youth,” said Consul General Stevens. “We hope that by developing local talent in technology fields, we can help accelerate medium- and long-term growth in Nigeria’s and Africa’s digital economies.”
The Digital Expert Academy, according to Wale Ajisebutu, Chairman & CEO of 21st Century Technologies Group, will help bridge the gap between youth and employers by better connecting young people with the changing needs of the private sector and the skills required to succeed in the digital economy.
He went on to say that the academy will collaborate with leading American technology companies like Microsoft and Oracle to provide trainees with world-class learning opportunities. He also stated that the academy is open to young people who are at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma.
The United States Mission in Nigeria supports Nigeria’s burgeoning technology scene and encourages the creation of the enabling environment required to foster a sector that contributes to a more prosperous future for all of its citizens.
