…Hails unbundling of HND Computer Science programme into specialised fields
By Chinenye Anuforo
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is undertaking a comprehensive review of the guidelines for registration of ICT Service Providers/Contractors, designed to streamline the process for the delivery of IT services to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The guidelines, initially issued in 2018, has outlined the registration process for indigenous IT service providers that guarantees the delivery of high-quality IT projects to the federal government, uphold the highest standards of professionalism in IT services, and nourish the growth of local IT companies, all in adherence to the relevant presidential executive orders.
Since the issuance of the guidelines, the Agency has identified the need to improve the efficiency in the process of registration, promote indigenous IT service provision, ensure competent vendors are engaged for IT service delivery to Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government of Nigeria. This is in line with the present administration’s drive to ensure collective prosperity through efficiency and innovation.
The review, which will result in the amendment of the guidelines, will create opportunities for more digital services to be provided by Nigerian companies while strengthening the ease of doing business for IT service providers.
In a press statement signed by Mrs Hadiza Umar, Head, Corporate Affairs and External Relations,
NITDA, the Agency explained that it is its desire to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians benefit from the use of Information Technology to enhance and simplify their daily activities, especially service delivery by government and other institutions. In view of this, The Agency invites the public to provide their comments, inputs, and feedback on or before the Sunday,
January 21 2024.
In another development, NITDA
commended the recent decision by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to unbundle the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Computer Science programme into four distinct specialisations: Artificial Intelligence, Network & Cloud Computing, Software & Web Development, and Cybersecurity & Data Protection.
“This visionary move is not just a game-changer in Nigeria’s IT sector; it represents a seismic shift in equipping Nigerian graduates with in-demand skills crucial for navigating the digital revolution. This development positions polytechnics at the centre of nurturing young Nigerians capable of tackling specific challenges and capitalising on the vast opportunities presented by emerging technologies”, the agency also said in a statement.
Moreover, NITDA views this as a significant step in promoting the growth of the IT sector and enhancing the capabilities of the nation’s workforce. It bridges skills gaps identified during our IT Skills Gap Assessment, conducted in partnership with CC Hub, which highlighted 12 IT skills in high demand both in Nigeria and globally.
NITDA recognises the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence, Network and Cloud Computing, Software and Web Development, as well as Cybersecurity and Data Protection in shaping the future of Nigeria’s IT sector. This is why it established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), as special purpose vehicles to nurture talent and equip interns and NYSC members with the requisite skills to excel in their digital journey.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, also emphasises the need for collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to ensure the successful implementation of these specialised fields.