In an era where technology dominates, the Somolu Local Government Area of Lagos State has taken a pivotal step towards youth empowerment and unemployment reduction. Abdul-Hamed Salawu, the Chairman of the Somolu Local Government, in partnership with Somolu Tech Innovation and the IT startup Tech Shepherd, has launched the second edition of a free ICT training initiative, dubbed SKILLSHOP, for the youth of Lagos. This program aims to arm participants with essential tech skills, including front-end web development and UI/UX design, marking a significant stride in fostering self-sufficiency and talent nurturing within the community.
Launching SKILLSHOP: A Beacon of Hope
During the unveiling of SKILLSHOP, represented by Hector Ayo-Coker, the Supervisor of Youth and Sports, it was announced that over 130 youths registered for the boot camp, though only 64 could physically attend the sessions held at Tech Shepherd’s facility in Somolu. The four-day intensive tech boot camp featured seven certified facilitators and tech trainers, ensuring quality instruction across various tech domains. This initiative is not only about training; selected participants will receive a six-week scholarship to further hone their skills, emphasizing the local government’s commitment to long-term youth development in the ICT sector.
Past Successes and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on the success of the inaugural free ICT training in November 2022, which saw over 65 youths trained in coding, UI/UX design, and digital marketing, Salawu expressed optimism about the SKILLSHOP’s potential impact. The previous success story has set a solid foundation for the second edition, aiming to build upon and expand the reach and depth of the training provided. This year, the focus on front-end web development and UI/UX design is intended to align with current market demands, thereby increasing the employability and entrepreneurial potential of the participants.
Empowering Youths, Shaping Futures
The significance of SKILLSHOP extends beyond mere skill acquisition; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem where young talents are recognized, nurtured, and given the tools to succeed in the highly competitive tech industry. By offering these trainings free of charge, Somolu Local Government and its partners are making a clear statement about their commitment to youth empowerment and the crucial role of technology in achieving it. The hope is that initiatives like SKILLSHOP will not only reduce unemployment among Lagos youths but also inspire other communities to adopt similar programs, thereby amplifying the impact across Nigeria.
As the SKILLSHOP boot camp concludes, the journey of its participants is just beginning. With new skills, scholarships, and a support network, these young individuals are now better equipped to navigate the tech world, either by entering the job market or by launching their own startups. This initiative serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between local governments and the private sector in addressing societal challenges and fostering economic growth through technology. The success of SKILLSHOP could very well be the blueprint for future tech education initiatives across the nation, offering a brighter future for Nigerian youths.
