Sen. Ashiru empowers 200 youths with ICT training, laptops in Kwara
By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo
Sen. Lola Ashiru has trained and empowered no fewer than 200 youths with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills and laptops in Kwara Central Senatorial District.
Mr Yinusa Alabi, Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President, said the initiative was part of Ashiru’s ongoing empowerment programmes for constituents across the seven local government areas in the district.
Alabi, who spoke on the sidelines of the programme on Thursday,, said the training was the fourth or fifth in the series since the senator assumed office.
He explained that the initiative, which coincided with the Ramadan period, also provided accommodation, Sahur and Iftar meals for participants, especially those who came from outside Ilorin and Offa.
“This programme is designed to empower the generality of our people, particularly the youths, who constitute a higher percentage of the beneficiaries.
“Participants cut across various professions, including students, artisans and small business owners such as fashion designers and traders,” he said.
According to him, the training focused on equipping participants with digital skills to enable them leverage technology to grow their businesses and improve productivity.
“The world is increasingly driven by technology. This programme is aimed at exposing our youths to the opportunities in ICT and how they can use it to promote their businesses and services,” he said.
Alabi noted that the programme was inclusive, adding that beneficiaries were selected beyond political affiliations, including those who applied online from outside the senatorial district.
He added that religious leaders and community stakeholders were also considered, to enable them utilise digital tools in their activities.
“Some clerics and community leaders were included so they can apply these digital tools in their work, such as preparing sermons and managing information,” he said.
The aide further disclosed that, in addition to the training and provision of laptops, beneficiaries were given transport allowances to ease their return to their respective destinations.
Alabi expressed optimism that the initiative would boost socio-economic development in the district by enhancing digital literacy, improving business management and promoting accountability among small-scale entrepreneurs.
He added that similar programmes would be organised in the coming months to reach more constituents.
A graduate of Computer Science from Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Mr Balogun Ayodeji, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, said the empowerment would go a long way in boosting his business.
He commended Sen. Lola Ashiru for the gesture and prayed for greater opportunities for the lawmaker to enable him to do more for youths.
Ayodeji added that the training had enhanced his confidence and improved his knowledge in digital skills, including web development, digital literacy and cybersecurity.