Over 100 Million Nigerian Youths Lack Crucial Digital Skills – Report
A recent study conducted by GetBundi, an online education technology company, has illuminated a pressing issue – more than 100 million young Nigerians lack essential digital skills needed for lucrative job prospects that hinge on modern capabilities.
According to Mr. Osita Oparaugo, the CEO of GetBundi, the survey findings underscore a stark digital skills gap, which has been closely tied to Nigeria’s distressingly high unemployment rates.
In a noteworthy development, a 2023 survey carried out by GetBundi’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as Digital Skill Education Technology Company, examined 100 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. Shockingly, only 19 of them demonstrated any semblance of digital proficiency.
Oparaugo emphasizes that this skills shortage stands as a pivotal reason why numerous yearly graduates from Nigerian higher education institutions struggle to secure gainful employment in the job market.
He stated, “The dearth of digital skills has emerged as a primary impediment, preventing a substantial portion of graduates from our tertiary institutions from gaining employment.
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“The CEO pointed out that, out of the seven individuals possessing rudimentary knowledge in programming, machine learning, and data science, all studied abroad – five in the UK, one in the United States, and one in Malaysia.
Surprisingly, despite their active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, these individuals still lack essential digital competencies.
Oparaugo attributes this digital skills void to Nigeria’s educational system, which he claims is out of sync with the contemporary digital landscape.
He asserts, “Our education system bears significant responsibility. It has long been criticized for not keeping pace with the rapidly evolving digital arena.”
He further argues that the curriculum used in Nigerian universities and tertiary institutions is antiquated and fails to address the practical aspects of vital digital skills.
“Essential digital skills, essential for equipping young individuals for jobs and self-employment, are noticeably absent within the current education system,” he states.
Oparaugo acknowledges that the government recognizes this deficiency and has initiated measures to foster digital literacy and skill acquisition among youths. Initiatives encompass coding boot camps, online training platforms, technology company collaborations, and entrepreneurial programs with a digital innovation focus.
While these efforts are commendable in imparting digital skills and enhancing employability and entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths, Oparaugo cautions that bridging the skills gap necessitates cooperation among the government, educational institutions, the private sector, and individuals.
