The Ondo State Government has described ICT as vital for Nigerian youth, providing access to education, fostering innovation, and creating job opportunities that empower them for national development.

Speaking at the opening of the Summer Boot Camp organised by the Gbenga Fawehinmi Foundation (GFF), the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, urged students to seize the free opportunity to gain valuable skills, adding that the government may partner with the foundation to expand the programme next year.

GFF CEO, Mr. Olabanji Fawehinmi, and Program Director, Mr. Joshua Aremu, highlighted that participants are being trained in areas such as Gen AI, web design, computer literacy, graphic design, and e-books. Aremu noted the initiative helps children compete globally, calling on stakeholders and corporate bodies to support its expansion.

The foundation’s mission is to equip 200 students from Ondo West and East with digital skills essential for the future, providing transportation to ease parents’ burden. “Tech is no longer optional; it’s essential,” Aremu said.

Students expressed gratitude, with Mary Babatunde of St Louis Grammar School and Sunday Prince noting they had gained new skills in graphic design and other areas.

Stakeholders present included representatives from Insightsphere Tech Solutions, the Zonal Education Office, and several school leaders