The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, has emphasised the importance of sustained partnerships and support from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) to bolster the university’s objectives in teaching, research, and community service.
Professor Asaolu expressed appreciation to both the NCC and DBI at a recent training 100 academic and non-academic workers of the university in Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADEPTI), organized by the DBI.
During the event, Prince Adesoji Ezekiel Fagbemi, ADEPTI Coordinator for the University of Ilesa, urged the Vice-Chancellor and other institutions, government departments, and private organisations to consider DBI as a primary choice for ICT training and educational initiatives.
Both Prof. Asaolu and Prince Fagbemi addressed attendees at the closing ceremony of the 2024 NCC-DBI ADEPTI training, where Prof. Asaolu awarded certificates to the staff who had participated in the program.
Expressing gratitude to both sponsors and facilitators, Prof. Asaolu said, “I want to extend my appreciation to the sponsors, facilitators, and participants who contributed to the program’s success. I am confident that the skills gained here will enhance our staff’s performance and effectiveness.”
The Vice-Chancellor further noted the significance of bringing digital empowerment to the university, adding, “The University sincerely thanks the NCC and DBI for providing this training on our campus. We look forward to more collaborations that will advance our core mission areas of teaching, research, and community service.”
He highlighted that this initiative reinforces the commitment to building technological competencies among the university’s workforce, a necessity in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. In a world increasingly driven by technology, he said, it is essential for all staff members to be proficient in digital skills to remain productive and relevant.
Prince Fagbemi, in his remarks, explained that the ADEPTI training programme is strategically designed to bridge digital skills gaps within tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
Fully sponsored by the NCC and implemented by DBI, the programme seeks to empower Nigerian institutions to stay competitive in a technology-centered world.
“The DBI, founded by the NCC, serves as Nigeria’s premier institution for ICT training and education,” he stated. “Through its programs, DBI plays a vital role in bridging the country’s digital divide, maintaining high standards across various ICT training platforms.”
He added that the DBI caters to a diverse audience, including students, educational institutions, professionals, and government departments, helping to drive digital inclusion and foster a technologically skilled workforce. DBI also maintains strong affiliations with international organizations like the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
Prince Fagbemi urged the Vice-Chancellor to consider a broader partnership with DBI, emphasising the benefits of regular workforce training, particularly for newer institutions like the University of Ilesa. “I recommend setting aside an annual budget for training,” he suggested. “The DBI is prepared to offer cost-effective training solutions for your staff at all levels.
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