By Mustapha Salisu
The Center for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has launched a training program designed to equip 30 youths with the skills needed to turn their technological ideas into successful business ventures.
Engineer Yunusa Zakari Yau, the Executive Director of CITAD, made this announcement during a training session held today at CITAD’s facilities.
He highlighted the untapped potential within communities, where talented young individuals possess ideas that could address pressing societal challenges.
Engineer Zakari emphasized CITAD’s commitment to supporting individuals with exceptional skills and innovative concepts who may lack the knowledge to effectively leverage their potential.
“The objective is to transform these individuals into potential employers and contributors to the labor market,” Yau stated.
He stressed the importance of ideas in establishing a business and mentioned that after the training, participants would receive guidance on securing grants to bring their concepts to life.
“Participants are encouraged to redouble their efforts to achieve our shared objectives and recognize their roles as future job creators,” Engineer Zakari urged.
Earlier in the session, CITAD’s Technical Officer, Muhammad Bello Yahaya, elaborated on the initiative, highlighting its focus on educating youth about the global trajectory of technology.
He noted that the training centers around four key areas: e-health, financial technology, climate change, and e-agriculture.
Muhammad assured participants that, at the end of the program, they would be required to propose business ideas for mentoring and transformation into technological business ventures.
“CITAD will also allow trainees to utilize its hardware lab to apply the knowledge gained during the training” Muhammad noted.
He noted that five participants from previous cohorts have received scholarships from the state government, covering their education from secondary to tertiary levels.
Suleiman Nata’allah, a participant who spoke on behalf of the group, described the training as engaging, noting that technology is the driving force in today’s world.
The participants pledged to apply their newfound knowledge to improve their lives and expressed gratitude to CITAD for providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talents.
