Digital Expert Academy arrives in Lagos

A new training hub, Digital Expert Academy, has been opened in Lagos.

The academy, founded by 21st Century Technologies Group, seeks to bridge the gap between youth and employers by connecting young people with the changing needs of the private sector and the skills needed to succeed in a digital economy.

Speaking at the official opening of the Digital Expert Academy in Lagos on Monday, January 23rd, the United States Consul General, Mr. Will Stevens noted that tech skills were important for the future prosperity and economic competitiveness of Nigeria.

“This initiative is investing in some of Nigeria’s richest resources – its young people,” said Consul General Stevens. “We hope that by developing local talent in tech fields, we help accelerate medium and long-term growth in Nigeria’s and indeed Africa’s digital economy.”

U.S. Consul General, Will Stevens speaking with the first cohort of trainees at the Digital Expert Academy during the opening ceremony in Lagos on Monday.

He also stated the United States government is committed to driving digital transformation and fostering a digital ecosystem built on open, interoperable, reliable, and secure internet and information and communication technology in Sub-Saharan Africa.

During his presentation, the Chairman & CEO of 21st Century Technologies Group, Mr. Wale Ajisebutu, explained that the Digital Expert Academy will help bridge the gap between youth and employers by better connecting young people with the changing needs of the private sector and the skills needed to succeed in the digital economy.

He added that the academy will partner with leading American tech companies such as Microsoft and Oracle to provide trainees with world-class learning opportunities. The academy, he added, is open to youth who are at least 18 years of age with a minimum of a high school diploma.