…..As Jakande Unleash 600 Tech Youths With Laptops, Internships in Odi-Olowo LCDA
Emmanuel Ikpeama
Ilupeju, Lagos— The atmosphere at the Tinubu Multi-Purpose Hall was electric on Monday as Hon. Dr. Seyi Lawal Jakande, Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, graduated 600 youths from a 3-month intensive ICT training programme and dared them to stop chasing jobs and start creating them.
“You are no longer job seekers, you are job creators,” Jakande declared to a hall full of cheers. “The world has changed. Your laptop is now your office. The internet is now your marketplace. And your skill is now your salary.”
Investigator news reports that three months ago, the graduands walked in with little or no tech background and today they walked out as certified full Stack Web Developers, Graphic Designers and Animators, Desktop Publishing Professionals, and Data Analysts.
In his address,Dr. Jakande said the programme was birthed under the HEWA Agenda specifically Education and Empowerment — to prepare young people for the digital economy.
“When we started this, our objective was simple: give our people practical skills that money cannot take away from them. Today, you are proof that it works,” he said.
He specifically praised Mufutau Olasubomi, Akinyemi Gabriel, Ayeyemi Olabisi, and Oke Muyiwa for a brilliant data analysis presentation using the 2023 Nigerian Presidential Election as a case study, which earned a standing ovation.
“Three months ago, you commenced this programme as learners. Today, you graduate as trained Full Stack Developers, Graphics Designers and Animators, Desktop Publishing Professionals, and Data Analysts.”
“This achievement is a testament to your commitment, discipline and hard work.The world is changing rapidly. Today, a laptop can be an office, the internet can be a marketplace, and digital skills can open doors to employment, entrepreneurship, freelancing and innovation.”he stated
Jakande went further to encourage the graduands to put their skills to work,build websites, create designs, analyse data, develop digital solutions, offer their services and explore opportunities online.
“Do not be afraid to start small. Every successful professional was once a beginner. Continue learning, keep practising and remain open to new opportunities”.
“Most importantly, remember that technology is not only about making money; it is about solving problems. Look around our community and ask yourself: What problem can my skills help solve? “he said
Why appreciating the facilitators and instructors for their dedication and commitment to training these young people,he applauded the parents and guardians for their support and encouragement, noting that his administration will continue to invest in the lives of the youths.
“As an administration, we will continue to invest in our people because we recognise that our greatest asset is our human capital. We will continue to support initiatives that equip our residents with relevant skills and create opportunities for them to thrive.”
“To our graduands, you are not merely beneficiaries of this programme; you are partners in the development of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA.”Jakande submitted
Investigator news gathered that Mr. Tolu Akintan of 50KMPH Tech Company and Mrs. Adeyoola Adenusi, CEO of Adeyoola Rehabilitation and Foundation announced immediate internship placements for top-performing graduates,so as to ensure the graduates don’t just have skills but also opportunities.
Two outstanding trainees also received brand new laptops,while all 600 graduands went home with certificates and starter packs containing wireless mouse, mini laptop bags and power banks.
One of the beneficiaries Akinyemi Gabriel”I came here with just a phone and a dream. Today I’m leaving with a skill, a certificate, and confidence. Thank you, Chairman, for believing in us.”
Speaking with newsmen,the Council Manager Ms. Ogabi Mojisola encouraged the graduands to be self reliance “You have been equipped with digital tools. But character is the password that will keep those doors open for you, therefore stay disciplined.”
“This council invested in you because we believe in you. Now it is your turn to invest back in our community with your talent.As you go out there, carry the name of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye with pride. Let your work announce us to the world”
“Don’t compete to be the best in the room. Compete to be the one who makes the room better and above all use your skill to lift others.”she advised
Lending his voice,The S.A on ICT,Hon Ibrahim Ahmed reminded the graduating students that the training has ended, but their apprenticeship to excellence has just begun.
“To all Graduands, you didn’t just learn how to use a computer. You learned how to use your brain to solve problems with a computer. That is what makes you dangerous to poverty.”
“The certificate in your hand is a license. A license to build, to earn, and to employ others. Don’t frame it and hang it. Use it.We trained you for 3 months. The internet will train you for a lifetime if you stay curious. Google is now your second lecturer.”he opined.
Dignitaries that graced the graduating ceremony included Vce Chairman Hon. Gbeminiyi Awodogan, SLG Hon. Mujeeb Daramola, Chief of Staff Hon. Taiwo Ogungbe, Leader Hon. Lekan Adeyi, Deputy Leader Hon. Haruna Adeosun, Council Manager Ms. Ogabi Mojisola, Council Treasurer Mr. Mujitabah Rufai, and councilors.
Also present: Princess Olufemi Akinlude, Hon. Kayode Olaniyan, Alh. Rotimi Hassan, Iyaloja Alh. Mufuliat Adebunmi, Com. Zakariyah Okeyale, as well as representatives from CAN and Muslin Community.
With laptops in bags and code in their heads, the 600 new tech professionals are expected to drive innovation, create jobs, and position Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye as Lagos’ next digital hub.
