Odu’a Investment Foundation (OIF), a non-profit making arm of Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL) recently launched one of its intervention projects Digital Education for Innovation and Economic Development (DEFINED).
The new project is an initiative conceptualized to upskill the South West youths towards the digital revolution.
According to the group, DEFINED will take digital skills to all the 137 local government areas of the South-West states of Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Lagos and it will also enhance transformative entrepreneurship and employment opportunities across Southwest Nigeria.
In her address, Chairman, Odu’a Investment Foundation, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, said: “We knew from the beginning that for the South-West to continue to set the pace in Nigeria, we must focus on formulating and implementing cutting-edge ideas and programmes that will speak directly to the needs of our people’s present and future while consolidating on the gains of the past.
“We are taking a significant step in achieving the mandate of the Foundation with the formal launch of DEFINED project. Along with the DEFINED project is the introduction of Byte Busters coding clubs in all our primary and secondary schools across the south west. This, we believe, will be another significant digital step towards having a smart, globally competitive youth population.
“Our young ones are our future. The youth are the drivers of development all over the world. A well-trained and properly kitted youth population will not only birth an economically viable society but will also engender the safety of all. As the Foundation grows, we pray that we are able to harness the talents and enthusiasm of all well-meaning members of the South-West towards accomplishing the best from this developmental initiative.
“Our young ones cannot hunt the bird of tomorrow with yesterday’s stones. This is the age of digital learning and smart jobs. We need to ensure that our youths are equipped with the right education and the right skills which, we believe, will make them not only relevant but competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world. You must have what the market needs before you can sell. That is why we must give our young ones the skills and the opportunity to compete and excel on the global stage. That is the whole essence of today’s event.
She added: “We have also discovered incredible eagerness to contribute, and selfless commitment to our nation’s development. Even our advance scouting team has discovered forty functional locations across the states that are ideal hubs for nearby schools as well as tech skills acquisition centres for young adults.
“We, most certainly, look forward to the support and close collaboration of all the owner-states of Odu’a Group, at all levels but particularly at the highest level, to ensure the success of this and other initiatives that are incorporated in the Foundation’s mandate. Together, we will achieve more, to the glory of God, the progress and development of the South West and the well-being of our people.
In his Goodwill message, Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu who was represented by member representing Ondo State on Odu’a board, Chief Segun Ojo, said: “The world is rapidly evolving, and so are the skills required for success in the 21st Century. Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, and it is transforming how we do virtually everything ranging from how we do business, learn, teach and interact.
The digital revolution has had a profound impact on economic growth and has impacted various industries, including technology, retail, entertainment, and finance. The development and widespread adoption of digital technologies have revolutionized the way businesses operate and interact with customers, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and profits.
The digital revolution has had a profound impact on economic growth. It has transformed industries, created new opportunities, increased productivity, and connected businesses and consumers on a global scale. However, it is important to address the challenges and risks associated with the digital economy to ensure that the benefits of digital technologies are inclusive and sustainable.
On his part, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said hi was represented by Permanent Secretary, Office of Secretary to the State Government/Cabinet Office, Tolani Oshodi, said: “Our rapidly evolving digital landscape, where access to knowledge and IT skills is paramount, needs a decisive response and I am happy that this project has emerged as a beacon of hope and opportunity, which stands as a testament to the collective determination of the foundation to create a more inclusive and innovative society. Education is the cornerstone of progress, and digital education, in particular, the key that unlocks countless doors of opportunity.
“As a government, our administration is committed to utilizing education and technology to transform Lagos state into a smart city. We are intentional in our policies and we are designing interventions that will improve the business environment, reform critical government systems and institutions as well as unlock new levels of innovative thinking especially in our youth.
“By providing the younger generation with the tools, knowledge, and support they need, we are sowing the seeds of innovation and economic growth. We are nurturing the visionaries, the creators, and the innovators who will steer us into a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow.