By Gabriel Dike
The Federal Government’s Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) continues to advance digital skills inclusivity in Nigeria by graduating a second cohort of persons with disabilities (PWDs), after a nine-month intensive training programme.
A total of 49 graduates were celebrated across two campuses, 24 from the Lagos campus and 25 from the Kano campus.
DBI, a government-owned institute under the National Communications Commission (NCC), has campuses in Abuja, Kano, Lagos, and Enugu. This cohort, in partnership with Sightsavers International, highlights the transformative power of education in enabling PWDs to thrive in the digital economy.
Notably, this is the second of such graduation in Africa, after a similar initiative in Kenya, also supported by Sightsavers.
The IT Bridge Academy offers PWDs a vital opportunity to acquire essential digital skills and certifications. It proves that, with the right support, people with disabilities can overcome barriers and excel in the often-exclusionary digital space.
The 49 graduates from Cohort 2 completed a rigorous nine-month programme, earning industry-recognized certifications in Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Digital Marketing, Data Analysis, E-Commerce, and Product Management.
At the Lagos graduation ceremony, DBI’s President and CEO, David Daser, represented by the Institute’s Head of Special Duties, Viola Askia-Usoro, emphasized the significance of the day. “This is not just about completing a course; it’s about transforming lives and opening doors to future opportunities in the digital space,” he noted.
He also spoke about the IT Bridge Academy’s unique curriculum designed to meet the needs of PWDs, offering specialized support. “The Academy provides tailored courses that equip graduates with in-demand skills for today’s tech industry. It’s a space that fosters both personal and professional growth,” he added. The initiative also combats the stigma and discrimination often faced by PWDs, creating pathways to fulfilling careers.
“The Academy is not just about education; it’s about creating opportunities for PWDs to realize their full potential,” said Daser.
During the ceremony, she encouraged the graduates to become advocates for inclusivity and accessibility, noting, “You are now ambassadors for change in the digital world. Your contributions will inspire others and show what is possible when barriers are dismantled.”
He called on all sectors to collaborate in building a more accessible digital economy, emphasizing the need to push for greater inclusion for all disadvantaged groups.
Looking ahead, Daser reaffirmed DBI’s commitment to expanding the IT Bridge Academy’s reach, ensuring more PWDs gain the digital skills necessary to succeed in today’s tech-driven world. “We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution,” he said.
Amos Adegboyega, the Cohort 2 Class Governor, shared the challenges they faced at the beginning of the programme, expressing that they once thought success was unattainable.
However, with encouragement and support from their instructors and stakeholders, they realized their potential, saying, “They gave us hope and reminded us that there are abilities in disability to help us achieve our dreams.”