Oyo Youth Embrace the Future with State-Sponsored Digital Revolution Program

On Wednesday, the Oyo State Government kicked off a two-day Digital Revolution Training and Empowerment Program aimed at equipping over 3,000 youth with essential digital skills. The event, which commenced on October 3, 2024, at the University of Ibadan Conference Center, drew participants from diverse backgrounds, all eager to enhance their digital knowledge and skills in line with the evolving demands of the modern workforce.

Organized by the Oyo State Government through the Oyo State Youth Agency in collaboration with Precision Automation Company, the training program covers a wide range of virtual courses. These include web development, online publishing, data analysis, social media management, and other key areas designed to foster digital literacy and entrepreneurial capacity among the state’s youth.

Prince Adebowale Falana, Chairman of the Oyo State Youth Agency, explained that the Digital Revolution program is part of the state government’s strategic efforts to reduce unemployment by creating opportunities for youth to thrive in the digital economy.
*”This training program is a critical step towards reducing unemployment and promoting innovation among our youth in Oyo State. It also includes mentorship opportunities and support for those looking to start digital businesses after completing the program,”* Falana said.

He further noted that the participants would gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects during the training, enhancing their employability and giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

In his keynote address, the CEO of Precision Automation, Mr. Emmanuel Odah, emphasized the importance of acquiring digital skills in today’s economy. He urged the youth to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, referring to them as potential “tool sellers” who could leverage their skills to provide solutions and generate wealth.

*”Digital skills are not just a means of livelihood; they are a pathway to achieving personal and professional goals, leading to a more prosperous and fulfilling life,”* Odah remarked, before leading the first session on web development, where participants gained practical skills in building websites.

The impressive turnout at the event also caught the attention of Hon. Michael Ogunsina, Oyo State Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary of the Oyo People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Hon. Ogunsina expressed his satisfaction with the level of participation, noting that it demonstrated the readiness of Oyo youth to embrace the digital revolution. He encouraged participants to continuously learn and adapt as the digital landscape is constantly evolving.

The Digital Revolution Training will continue today (Thursday, October 3, 2024), focusing on digital marketing and artificial intelligence, offering participants further opportunities to expand their digital expertise.

Several dignitaries graced the opening day of the training, including Pastor Emmanuel Oluwafemi Okeowo (General Overseer, World of Grace Family Impact Church), Hon. Adebayo Babajide Gabriel (Ibadan North Constituency II), Hon. Opeyemi Modiu (Ibadan South-East I), Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade (Executive Chairman, Ibadan North LG), Hon. Yusuff Adebisi (Ibadan South-West I), Asiwaju Seun Fakorede, Hon. Ogunsina Michael, Alake Iya Pedro, and Hon. Dideoluwa Victor, among others.