As part of strategic effort to create employment opportunities, enhance digital literacy for youths in the state, the Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde-led government in Oyo State through the Agency for Youth Development, has announced its readiness to train no fewer than 3,000 young individuals in various digital skills.

Chairman of the Agency, Prince Falana Adebowale, disclosed this on Tuesday, September 17 during a press briefing in his office at the state Secretariat, Ibadan.

Prince Falana equally disclosed that the 3,000 youths eligible for application into the training program range between the ages of 18 – 35 years adding that 2-Day training program begins on October 2 at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.

While noting that the training does not end after the slated two days, Prince Falana emphasized that participants will undergo at least 5 months period of mentorship and close monitoring by the experts.

He also stated that financial institutions are already partnering with the agency on the program to ensure access to financial support for successful participants who completed are certified at the end of the five months period.

He also stated that eligibility for the training is opened to all youths within the age bracket resident in Oyo state regardless of ethnic, religious or political affiliations.

Prince Falana, who noted that applications have already been received by the agency through the official online registration portal directed applicants to visit www.oyods.com for their registration.

According to him, the training which is part of the state youth empowerment initiative would equip youths with digital skills on web development, digital marketing, Amazon Kindle publishing and leveraging Artificial Intelligence as well as a five month virtual mentorship programme for proper grooming.

Hon Adebowale equally explained that beyond being a youth friendly leader, Governor Seyi Makinde remained committed to creating an avenue for youths in the state to thrive and become self sufficient in supporting state development.

“Our goal is to empower at least 3000 youths resident in Oyo state with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

“This training program is a critical step towards reducing unemployment and promoting innovation among our youths within Oyo state.

”The registration portal for the program is now live for interested candidates to apply online. The portal, accessible through the agency’s official designated portal at www.oyods.com and applicants

are required to be residents of Oyo State and aged between 18 and 35.

The training will be delivered through a series of virtual courses, covering areas such as web development, online publishing, data analysis, and social media management among others.

“Participants will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience during the training. Successful candidates will have access to financial support from our development partners on the program upon completion of the training, which will enhance their employability and provide them with a competitive edge in the business world.

“Additionally, the program includes mentorship opportunities and support for those looking to start their own digital businesses after the training program. The agency is partnering with several tech firms and IT experts to deliver high-quality training.” Prince Falana said.