Grace Semudara
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has lauded the recent decision by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to unbundle the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computer Science programme.
The unbuddling is into four distinct specialisations: Artificial Intelligence, Network & Cloud Computing, Software & Web Development, and Cybersecurity & Data Protection.
The agency made the disclosure in a press statement.
NITDA described the decision as a visionary move, noting that it is not just a game-changer in Nigeria’s IT sector; but also a representation of seismic shift in equipping Nigerian graduate with in-demand skills crucial for navigating the digital revolution.
“This development positions polytechnics at the centre of nurturing young Nigerians capable of tackling specific challenges and capitalising on the vast opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
“We view this as a significant step in promoting the growth of the IT sector and enhancing the capabilities of the nation’s workforce. It bridges skills gaps identified during our IT Skills Gap Assessment, conducted in partnership with CC Hub, which highlighted 12 IT skills in high demand “, the ICT body added.
In the same vein, NITDA recognised the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence, Network and Cloud Computing, Software and Web Development, as well as Cybersecurity and Data Protection in shaping the future of Nigeria’s IT sector.
” This is why we established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), as special purpose vehicles to nurture talent and equip interns and NYSC members with the requisite skills to excel in their digital journey.” NITDA noted.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, on his part called for collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to ensure the successful implementation of the specialised fields.
“NITDA extends its gratitude to the National Board for Technical Education for its vision and commitment to advancing technical education in Nigeria. It encourages a paradigm shift in educational approaches, urging institutions to proactively incorporate elements of digital literacy into their curriculum structures”, he said.
The Agency believed that embracing the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) would serve as a transformative step towards ensuring that the Nigerian educational system remains at the forefront of technological innovation and equips students with the competencies needed for success in the modern world.
“NITDA is looking forward to continuous collaboration to create an environment where Nigerian IT professionals can thrive and make significant contributions to the global digital economy.” Kashifu added.
Grace Omowunmi
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has lauded the recent decision by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to unbundle the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computer Science programme.
The unbuddling is into four distinct specialisations: Artificial Intelligence, Network & Cloud Computing, Software & Web Development, and Cybersecurity & Data Protection.
The agency made the disclosure in a press statement.
NITDA described the decision as a visionary move, noting that it is not just a game-changer in Nigeria’s IT sector; but also a representation of seismic shift in equipping Nigerian graduate with in-demand skills crucial for navigating the digital revolution.
“This development positions polytechnics at the centre of nurturing young Nigerians capable of tackling specific challenges and capitalising on the vast opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
“We view this as a significant step in promoting the growth of the IT sector and enhancing the capabilities of the nation’s workforce. It bridges skills gaps identified during our IT Skills Gap Assessment, conducted in partnership with CC Hub, which highlighted 12 IT skills in high demand “, the ICT body added.
In the same vein, NITDA recognised the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence, Network and Cloud Computing, Software and Web Development, as well as Cybersecurity and Data Protection in shaping the future of Nigeria’s IT sector.
” This is why we established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), as special purpose vehicles to nurture talent and equip interns and NYSC members with the requisite skills to excel in their digital journey.” NITDA noted.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, on his part called for collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to ensure the successful implementation of the specialised fields.
“NITDA extends its gratitude to the National Board for Technical Education for its vision and commitment to advancing technical education in Nigeria. It encourages a paradigm shift in educational approaches, urging institutions to proactively incorporate elements of digital literacy into their curriculum structures”, he said.
The Agency believed that embracing the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF) would serve as a transformative step towards ensuring that the Nigerian educational system remains at the forefront of technological innovation and equips students with the competencies needed for success in the modern world.
“NITDA is looking forward to continuous collaboration to create an environment where Nigerian IT professionals can thrive and make significant contributions to the global digital economy.” Kashifu added.
