“The role of ICT in the future of Nigerian youth”

Information and computer technology offers both employment and empowerment for Nigeria’s youth, writes Isah Babayo, 28, a Correspondent from Gombe in Nigeria, who says the technology offers skills and networking opportunity.

The current trend is of young people migrating from rural to urban areas in search of white collar jobs that are nowhere to be found.

Hence, the need to reoriented youth on being self sustaining with high achievement through the use of Information and communication technology (ICT).  With these, many have shown interest in changing the face of society through the use of  Information and communication technology, focusing mainly on impacting worthwhile skills and practical knowledge in the areas of networking, computers and Global System of Communication (GSM) repairs.

With such skills, the average young people can organise themselves in order to address their own needs and interests. They can make their particular contribution to social progress and be an asset to the growing economy of the area, as such skills and manpower are in high demand due to the emerging technology explosion. The provision of training facilities will help to reach out to marginalised and disadvantaged communities in targeted areas through the use of information and communication technology. The facilities of laptops and desktop computers, among others,  will create business incubation and networking opportunities where business, market and related information experiences work continuously via Information and communication technology while enabling young people to be self sufficient in ways that will serve them throughout their lifetime.

Also, the use of ICT to bring new employment for youths and migrant workers has also given opportunity to develop new ideas in the technology via the education system, training  facilities and affordable access to computers. In this way, youths have an opportunity to be self employed, and they are exposed to entrepreneurship through the use of information and communication technology. The demand of technology is seen to be a reality in creating employment opportunity for young people, where the youths will show  their interest and creativity in software applications, bio-engineering, digital media, and mobile applications, which will attract young people’s creativity. Social interactions through the use of information and communication technology will help reliable and creative business ideas in the next one to three years, so that they can respond  more effectively in all aspects of learning needed, and to document the best information and communication technology practices among the youths for future benefit.

The hope of every citizen, especially the Nigerian citizen, is to see that his or her country is developed with no negative effect, idea or system. This will go with a particular reference in improving the quality of life and eradicating poverty among young people who are disadvantaged and excluded from information and communication technology and opportunity because of their poverty and illiteracy.

Today, many Nigerian youths have keen desire to access information and communication technology, with a particular focus on gaining worthwhile skills and practical knowledge in the areas of networking, computers and global system of communication repairs. The technology has been useful as a means helping migrant workers keep in touch and acquire training. Using information and communication technology brings value to youths and migrant workers in broadening their thinking through global exposure.

Reach me on Twitter @isahguru

Photo credit: Archigeek Computer Lab via photopin (license)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

About me: My name is Isah Babayo, currently, studying Educational Administration and Planning at Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State. An award winning essayist, a writer who devoted to the best on the fiction and non-fiction essay. I had keened of interest in all aspect of journalism. And i’m good in writing articles, essay and Strong leadership, personnel skill and community services experience in youth and women development.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the Commonwealth Youth Programme. Articles are published in a spirit of dialogue, respect and understanding. If you disagree, why not submit a response?
To learn more about becoming a Commonwealth Correspondent please visit: http://www.yourcommonwealth.org/submit-articles/

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………