The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria to train young Nigerians in the newest 4G/ 5G radio and transmission technology.
Dr. Aminu Maina, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman, confirmed this in a post on his X account.
He stated that the training will be provided nationally in the Commission’s Digital Parks.
According to him, the MoU also calls for Nokia Nigeria to establish a fully functional 5G/4G test lab using the company’s latest radio and transmission technology.
“This collaboration advances our vision to enhance the capacity and skills-set of Nigerians by equipping them with contemporary skills and knowledge needed to adapt to the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry,” Maida stated.
The NCC EVC stated that Nokia would also construct a center to train 200 Nigerian students as part of efforts to enhance digital literacy in the country.
“In tune with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s goal to drive digital literacy and build a pipeline of technical talents across Nigeria, Nokia Nigeria would also set up an Entrepreneur Learning Programme where it would deliver high-quality vocational training to 200 Nigerian students chosen from across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria,” the head of the NCC stated.
Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), which is being implemented by various government organizations, including the NCC, seeks to reach 90% digital literacy by 2030.
Speaking about the target recently, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stated that the digital literacy plan is aimed at youngsters and seniors. “By 2030, 90% of Nigerians are expected to be digitally literate.”
Digital literacy does not imply that you will become a technical skill; instead, it provides the foundation to decide whether you want to engage in the digital economy.
The minister also stated that the government is onboarding individuals who may need more knowledge and understanding of technology use.
According to him, the government understands that younger people are digital natives, which means they are naturally familiar with technology and will always be interested in it.
“We need to have an economy where everyone is generally interested in technology and a large population of people has an understanding of technology,” he stated.
