The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in partnership with Sightsavers, has graduated 25 physically challenged persons from its IT Bridge Academy, a nine-month programme designed to equip them with specialised IT skills.
David Daser, President and Chief Executive Officer of DBI, announced this at the graduation ceremony for Cohort 2 of the Digital Bridge Institute and Sightsavers IT Bridge Academy in Lagos.
He stated that the academy was the second of its kind in Africa, following a similar initiative in Kenya, also supported by Sightsavers International.
Daser highlighted that the graduation marked a significant milestone in empowering persons with disabilities with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital economy.
He acknowledged the dedication and achievements of the participants, who had successfully completed their training despite the challenges they faced.
Stressing the importance of inclusivity, Daser described the academy as a beacon of hope for physically challenged individuals across Africa.
He noted that the graduates had completed an intensive nine-month training course, gaining skills in Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and other supporting modules.
Daser emphasised that these skills would enable the graduates to compete favourably in the job market and pursue their passions with confidence.
He pointed out that physically challenged people often faced barriers, stigma, and discrimination, limiting their ability to reach their full potential.
Daser underscored that disability inclusion required collaboration among all stakeholders to develop systems that promote inclusion across all sectors.
He praised the partnership between DBI and Sightsavers International for creating a unique and impactful programme that was transforming lives.
Daser also commended the faculty and staff of the institute for their dedication in delivering high-quality training and support to the students.
He urged the graduates to use their skills and knowledge to drive positive change within their communities.
Daser stated that the DBI IT Bridge Academy aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which promotes democracy, economic growth, and Nigeria’s demographic potential.
He also noted that the programme supported the Knowledge Pillar of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s Strategic Plan for 2023 to 2027.
Daser called on the government, private sector, NGOs, and businesses to create more opportunities for physically challenged individuals.
He expressed hope that DBI would receive further support and grants from international and national partners to sustain the academy’s noble objectives.
Daser congratulated the graduates, assuring them that the future was bright and the institute was eager to witness their achievements.
Dr Joy Shuaibu, Country Director of Sightsavers in Nigeria, stated that the foundation had worked in Nigeria for 72 years to ensure equal access to health, education, and employment.
She explained that Sightsavers had consistently advocated for the inclusion of physically challenged persons in employment and worked to enhance their skills and employability.
Shuaibu noted that Nigeria still had a long journey towards full inclusion but was pleased to see private sector collaboration supporting the cause.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the National Commission for Persons with Disability in championing inclusion.
Chukwuemeka Nze, Head of Learning and Development at DBI, stated that the programme aimed to equip physically challenged persons with specialised IT skills.
He said the graduates had received training in Cisco Certified Network Associate, product management, digital marketing, e-commerce, data analysis, and visualisation.
Similarly, Genevieve Ikejiofor, Head of Campus at DBI, highlighted that the Federal Government’s focus on technology and ICT made such training crucial.
Ikejiofor pointed out that the programme had helped graduates upskill, making many of them self-employed.
She attributed the success of the initiative to the strong partnership between DBI and Sightsavers International.
