A GLOBAL information and communication technology firm, Oracle, has
underscored the need for Nigeria to develop computer and information
technology skills among its youth populations to build a virile and
competitive workforce.
According to Oracle, Nigeria needs to tap hugely, the massive opportunities computer skills development can add to the economy.
Regional Director, Oracle Academy, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Jane Richardson, said this at completion of the first “Train the Trainer” Introduction to Computer Science (ICS) course in Lagos, covering database design and programming with SQL orgainsed by Oracle Academy .
Richardson said computer science is a 21st century skill, and the technology industry has a role to play in ensuring that students around the globe have access to high quality curriculum and resources that help them gain industry relevant knowledge and skills. “Robust training programmes for teachers and faculty are a critical component of Oracle Academy’s effort to enhance computer science education.
“We are excited to extend our engagement with universities in Nigeria by adding this ‘Train the Trainer Introduction to Computer Science course’ to our existing advanced computer science program.”
According to the firm, 25 faculty members from Cross River University attended the course delivered by Nigerian professor Dr. Abel Usoro, who teaches the Oracle Academy course at the West of Scotland University.
He said the addition of the course to the already successful Oracle Academy engagement in Nigeria further affirms the firm’s commitment to support the development of computer science skills, which are fundamental to economic growth and business development.
Speaking in the same vein, Country Manager of Oracle Nigeria, Adebayo Sanni, said, “Our job as an industry leader is to help teachers impart globally transferable skill sets to their students, ones that will be of relevance to a broad spectrum of careers.”
Meanwhile, Usoro said, the three-day training holds great expectations for a positive future of high quality database specialists who will continue to drive the engine of growth in the country.