Govt engages MTN on digital literacy

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Inuwa, has called for a partnership between NITDA and the MTN Foundation to promote digital literacy and capacity building in Nigeria.

Inuwa made this appeal during a courtesy visit by an MTN Foundation delegation, led by Executive Secretary Odunayo Sanya, at NITDA’s corporate headquarters in Abuja, recently.

According to a statement, the DG emphasised the importance of collaboration in advancing digital literacy and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to drive industrialisation and economic diversification.

Nigeria aims to achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by 2030, as outlined in the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy. A mid-term target of 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027 has also been set, with efforts focused on integrating digital skills into formal education and providing alternative learning opportunities.

Inuwa highlighted NITDA’s commitment to developing a digital literacy framework aligned with UNESCO and DigiCom standards.

He noted that the agency is collaborating with stakeholders to design a three-phase curriculum for primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, with an emphasis on practical skills rather than just certifications.

The MTN Foundation shares similar objectives and currently offers online programmes with over 4,000 courses, with 2,000 young Nigerians already enrolled.

Sanya commended NITDA’s initiatives and invited the agency to unveil its academy platform on April 17.

NITDA and MTN Foundation have agreed to establish a committee to accelerate digital literacy efforts. The partnership is expected to drive digital skills development across Nigeria, supporting the country’s broader economic and technological growth.

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