The chief executive officer of Digital Bridge Institute, David Daser, has lamented the issue of stigma against Persons with Disability (PWDs) that affects their development and limits them from exercising their potential to actualize their dreams.
He stated this while calling on government and private sector organisations, to create opportunities for the engagement of PWDs.
Daser made the call yesterday in Kano during the graduation ceremony of 25 PWDs held at the IT Bridge Academy, a pioneering initiative empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs) with digital skills, in collaboration with Sightsavers Nigeria.
“These barriers include access to training and capacity development opportunities”, he stated.
However, he stated that disability inclusion is a journey that is quite new to the Nigerian society, therefore, the collaboration of all stakeholders is required to entrench a variety of systems and approaches that would promote disability inclusion in all sectors in Nigeria.
“To mitigate these challenges our Partner Sightsavers International developed a well-crafted ICT capacity-building programme based on in-demand IT skill requirements titled IT Bridge Academy.
“We must work to break down barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate fully,” he added.
The IT Bridge Academy contributes to this goal by providing PWDs with industry-recognized certifications, enhancing their employability and other opportunities.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Sunday Isiaku, representing Sightsavers Nigeria, congratulated the 25 graduands and emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating opportunities for PWDs in the digital economy.
He noted that the academy’s success is undeniable, and its impact will continue to inspire others.
Isiaku emphasised that at Sightsavers, they firmly believe that disability should never be a barrier to employment or economic independence.
The IT Bridge Academy was designed to bridge the gap in digital skills and create pathways to meaningful careers for persons with disabilities. It is inspired by Cisco’s Global Networking Academy which has trained over 8 million people worldwide.
This programme is not just about education; it is about economic empowerment, inclusion, and proving that talent-not disability-should define a person’s opportunities.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by his senior special adviser on ICT, Malam Yusuf Sharada, lauded the Sightsavers and the IT academy for their unwavering dedication to empowering people with disabilities.
“This administration accords much priority to uplifting the well-being of PWDs. This training is in the right direction, and we are seeing you as partners in progress,” he stated.
He urged the graduates to utilize their knowledge adequately and be good ambassadors for their families, the state, and the nation at large.
Executive director Engineer Mustapha Habu said people living with disabilities deserve special respect and honour, saying PWDs have special abilities; hence, the training was very timely.
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