The Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District and Deputy Senate Leader, Lola Ashiru has intensified efforts to bridge the digital gap by training 60 youths in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and distributing 200 computer systems to beneficiaries across the state.
The initiative, which cut across party lines, is aimed at equipping young people with practical digital skills to enhance employability and drive economic empowerment.
Speaking on his behalf in Offa, Senior Legislative Aide, Yunus Alabi, said “the programme forms part of the Senator’s sustained empowerment drive across the seven local government areas in the district,” noting that it is the fifth in the series since he assumed office.
Alabi explained that participants were trained in web design and other ICT skills to enable them leverage technology for personal growth and professional development.
“The world is increasingly driven by technology. This programme is aimed at exposing our youths to the opportunities in ICT and how they can use it to promote their businesses and services,” he said.
Alabi said that “the programme factored in the Ramadan period, with participants—especially those from outside Oyun and Offa local government areas—provided with accommodation, as well as Sahur and Iftar meals.”
According to him, beneficiaries were drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, including students and artisans, all seeking to strengthen their digital capacity.
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According to him, most of the participants are young people from various professional backgrounds, including students and individuals engaged in different trades.
The lawmaker, he said, ensured that beneficiaries were selected across different political parties, with the programme also extended beyond the senatorial district through online applications.
Alabi further stated that the initiative is designed to empower the broader population, particularly youths, who make up the majority of the beneficiaries.
“Participants cut across various professions, including students, artisans and small business owners such as fashion designers and traders,” he said.
The aide further disclosed that, in addition to the training and provision of laptops, beneficiaries were given transport allowances to ease their return to their respective destinations.
Alabi expressed optimism that the initiative would boost socio-economic development in the district by enhancing digital literacy, improving business management and promoting accountability among small-scale entrepreneurs.
He added that similar programmes would be organised in the coming months to reach more constituents.
Ajewole Josephine and Balogun Ayodeji, who spoke on behalf of other beneficiaries, commended the senator for the gesture adding that the empowerment would go a long way in boosting their businesses, digital skill and literacy.