Wema Bank, FG Begin Training For 2m Youths, 1m MSMEs On Digital Skills

Wema Bank, in partnership with the federal government, has commenced the virtual training in the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation programme for MSMEs from November 27, 2023.

Launched in September 2023, the programme has witnessed hundreds of thousands of business owners, aspiring business owners, working-class professionals and jobseekers expressing keen interest in developing their digital skills, enhancing their employability and deepening their business management skills.

The programme aims to train 2,000,000 youths and 1,000,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with a diverse range of digital skills.

The skills include software engineering, product management, business analysis, cloud computing, product design, and more. Applicants can anticipate a holistic experience beyond virtual training as they will be exposed to hands-on physical training conducted at cutting-edge digital hubs strategically located nationwide.

Announcing the launch of the virtual training for the first cohort of 270,000 participants, MD/CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, highlighted the transformative opportunity the programme represents for business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, job seekers, and professionals across Nigeria.

He said: “Beyond mere skill acquisition, this programme is set to create a ripple effect of socioeconomic benefits across the nation. By empowering our youth, we are not just fostering individual successes; we are investing in the broader narrative of national progress, promoting job creation, boosting innovation, and paving the way for a more prosperous future.

“At its core, the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme aims to build a marketplace for young entrepreneurs, providing digital skills that open doors to sustainable career development and expose small-scale business owners to funding and grants. Successful applicants will experience four months of learning on a tailored track, choosing between the SME route or the employment route. Overall, the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is more than just a training initiative; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem designed to foster innovation, growth, and success, shaping the next generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs and professionals.”

Oseni added that as the virtual training begins, the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme heralds a new era of digital empowerment.

“Upon completion of both virtual and physical training, participants will gain exclusive access to one-on-one mentorship sessions with esteemed professionals and business leaders from Nigeria and across the globe. This unique opportunity fosters networking, allowing participants to connect with peers and industry leaders, and cultivate valuable relationships. Furthermore, the programme opens doors to internship placements, providing a platform to gain practical experience and refine skills within a real-world work environment,” he said.