The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has partnered with ENGAUSA GLOBAL TECH HUB LTD to drive digital inclusion and skills development in Nigeria. Under the leadership of Engr. Mustapha Habu Ringim, ENGAUSA has demonstrated a commitment to breaking barriers to education, technology, and economic participation through its innovative approach to technology education and skills development. This partnership has enabled ENGAUSA to expand its reach and impact, creating opportunities for thousands of Nigerians to acquire relevant competencies and participate in the digital economy.
The partnership between NITDA and ENGAUSA dates back to 2020, when NITDA recognized the grassroots impact of ENGAUSA's digital inclusion programs and provided the organization with computers and smartphone repair tools. This support has been extended through various collaborations, including national and local training programs and graduation ceremonies. NITDA's confidence in ENGAUSA's experience and grassroots impact has also been reflected in the Agency's repeated engagement of ENGAUSA in policy development and strategic framework review processes.
ENGAUSA's approach to digital inclusion has been centered on language inclusion, using Hausa alongside English in its learning environment. This approach has helped expand inclusion across several dimensions, including disability, gender, age, culture, education, economic circumstances, and geographical location. By reducing cost barriers to acquiring employable and entrepreneurial skills, ENGAUSA has made skills development more accessible to underserved communities.
The impact of ENGAUSA's programs has been significant, with over 11,000 beneficiaries reached, over 12,000 direct and indirect jobs created, and over 1,000 startup businesses, SMEs, and freelance enterprises supported across 22 states of Nigeria. NITDA has recognized ENGAUSA's contributions through two major national recognitions, including the Best Trainer of the Year Award in 2022 and a special recognition award in 2026.
The partnership between NITDA and ENGAUSA has also contributed to changing perceptions about the value of technical competencies. Through competency-based training, recognition of prior learning, practical mentoring, and enterprise incubation, ENGAUSA has promoted the dignity of skills and the formalization of informal businesses. This approach has opened doors for people with zero certificates, Almajiris, unemployed and underemployed university graduates, women, freelancers, and online workers.
ENGAUSA's inclusive approach has created learning environments where people from different educational, socioeconomic, religious, traditional, and cultural backgrounds sit together, learn together, and build their futures without stereotypes or discrimination. The organization's commitment to leaving no one behind has also created learning opportunities for persons with hearing and visual impairments.
The collaboration between NITDA and ENGAUSA serves as a model for promoting digital inclusion and skills development in Nigeria. With a focus on language inclusion, accessibility, and employability, this partnership has demonstrated the potential for public-private partnerships to drive positive change and create opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.
Key points
- NITDA and ENGAUSA have partnered to promote digital inclusion, skills development, and entrepreneurship in Nigeria, reaching over 11,000 beneficiaries.
- ENGAUSA's approach to language inclusion has expanded access to education and skills development for underserved communities.
- The partnership has contributed to changing perceptions about the value of technical competencies and promoting the dignity of skills.
