The Edo State Government has announced a partnership with Google to train 800 students in advanced technology skills, as part of efforts to prepare the state’s youth for opportunities in the global digital economy.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said in a statement on Tuesday that the initiative is a key component of the SHINE Agenda of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, designed to equip young people with high-demand skills.
“We are introducing the Advanced Job Ready Tech Programme in collaboration with Google, to provide Edo students with opportunities in the global workspace,” Iyamu said. “This strategic programme is aimed at preparing them for the global digital market and ensuring they can compete on equal terms with their peers worldwide.”
The training will cover specialisations such as data science, data analysis and visualisation, data architecture, geospatial data science, computer vision, natural language processing, and advanced machine learning techniques.
Participants will also benefit from a career fair, internship placements, and job opportunities that could enable them to earn in foreign currency while working remotely.
Iyamu noted that the programme is open to Edo students both within and outside the state, with provisions for remote learning. Those without laptops will have access to the state’s digital hub in Benin City.
Citing a recent World Economic Forum projection that more than 37 million jobs will be created in the global digital sector, he said the state is determined to ensure that Edo’s youth are well positioned to benefit.
“Education in Edo State is not just about ensuring that no child is left behind,” Iyamu said, “but about equipping them with the critical skills needed to navigate today’s world, make a positive impact, and compete successfully on a global scale.”
