‘DigitalForAll’: Organisers announce N150 million reward for participants

Tech4Dev, a non-profit social enterprise dedicated to providing Africans with access to decent work and entrepreneurship opportunities, has unveiled a N150 million reward for participants in its ‘DigitalForAll’ Challenge.

Implemented in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the initiative aims to incentivize self-development and promote the acquisition and application of digital skills through competitive incentives.

During the program’s launch, Tech4Dev founder Joel Ogunsola announced that the competition would take place at regional and state levels, culminating in a grand finale on NITDA’s Digital Nigeria International Conference and Exhibition Day. He emphasized the initiative’s goal to ensure that every Nigerian has the right to digital literacy and skills for the future of work.

“The challenge has two phases, the training and competition phases. After the first, beneficiaries will be required to take an assessment to qualify for the second phase,” he said.

Up to 150 million in cash and consolation prizes awaits you at the #DigitalForAllChallenge 2.0!

Secure your spot by joining the waitlist today. Be the first to know when the portal opens for learning on February 5th, 2024, and embark on a journey of digital empowerment with us. pic.twitter.com/XuK05dBijO

— Tech4Dev (@Tech4DevHQ) January 26, 2024

NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, highlighted that the challenge aligns with the agency’s goal of attaining 70% digital literacy by 2027. He emphasized its resonance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration, focusing on transforming the economy and empowering Nigerians through technology.

“Our collective mission is clear as we launch this program as a complimentary effort toward achieving a 70% digital literacy rate for Nigerians by 2027. DigitalForAll Initiative is a visionary programme poised to shape the future of our nation and we also intend to use our Digital Nigeria platform for the final competition of the  programme,” Inuwa noted.

Also Read: FG investing in citizens to be experts in AI – NITDA

The Director-General, taking the opportunity to elaborate on the eight pillars in the revised Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) of the agency, outlined that the roadmap comprises:

• Fostering Digital Literacy and Cultivating Talents
• Building a Robust Technology Research Ecosystem
• Strengthening Policy Implementation and Legal framework
• Promoting Inclusive Access to Digital Infrastructure and Services
• Strengthening Cybersecurity and Enhancing Digital Trust
• Nurturing an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
• Forging Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration
• Cultivating a Vibrant Organizational Culture and an Agile Workforce in NITDA

Inuwa emphasized that these are essential foundations aimed at tackling the strategic challenges hindering the realization of the agency’s mandates, mission, and values.

He mentioned that the document would be revealed in the first quarter of 2024, characterizing the competition as a thoughtfully designed program and a commitment to empower every Nigerian with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in the digital landscape.

“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that digital literacy is not just about skilling people; it is about empowering them to unleash their full potential”. It is about providing growth opportunities, fostering innovation, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital world; that is what this programme is poised to achieve,” he said.

The DG stated that the success of the DigitalForAll Initiative depends on inclusive digital literacy, accessible learning platforms, public-private partnerships, measurable impact, and awards, noting that collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, industry leaders, and communities is crucial to achieving its objectives.

Expressing gratitude to the partners, sponsors, and individuals contributing to the realization of the “DigitalForAll” initiative, Inuwa encouraged everyone involved to embark on the challenging journey with enthusiasm, determination, and a shared vision of achieving a digitally inclusive Nigeria.