Microsoft is partnering with “The Future Project”, a Non-governmental organization based in Nigeria to boost the nation’s economy and overall development through technology.
SaharaReporters reported the announcement of a program codenamed “Accelerate LABS” which was birthed by computer giants, Microsoft and The Future Project. The announcement was officially made at an event tagged “Activating the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises” which held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of one of the hosting duo, Microsoft, the Chief Technology Officer (C.T.O) of Microsoft Nigeria who was ably represented by a Mr. Hakeem Adeniji-Adele had these to say;
“Microsoft recognizes the creativity and intelligence of young Nigerian minds, which fully informs our support for this initiative to empower startups in realizing their full potentials, while also boosting the local economy through education, employment, and entrepreneurship,” said Mr. Hakeem.
He went on further to disclose what triggered the creation of the project and how the company responded.
“With this project, we are leveraging on the demand for better and effective technology to teach young Nigerians how to better themselves, their families and their communities,” he continued.
Mr. Hakeem also revealed Microsoft’s plans for the participants after the training ends. He noted that Microsoft will not only train them and help them acquire necessary skills, but also assist a significant portion of trainees in job placements.
“As part of our commitment, the company plans to help place millions of smart devices in the hand of Africa youth and help bring their SME online. Thousands of Nigerian graduates will be assisted to develop skill of which 75 percent will be supported by Microsoft on job placement.”
According to information gathered, the participants or beneficiaries of the program will cut across all the six (6) geopolitical zones in Nigeria and the total number of individuals that the two organizations will cater for through funding and training will be is fixed at 2,500.
Speaking for the other hosting organization, The Future Project was the Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Bukola Adebakin and he said the words below;
“With the new businesses that will be supported through training and funds, there are immense opportunities to create jobs and also provide young entrepreneurs wider access to useful knowledge and strategies in building more successful businesses,” he said.
Reporting the excitement and delight of Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah as regards the collaboration of Microsoft Nigeria and The Future Project is Vanguard.
Dr. Okechukwu went on to affirm that the Ministry will ensure that a conducive and enabling environment will be provided for the success of the “Accelerate LABS” labs training program.
The training is expected to commence this month (September) and will last over a stretch of 3 months.
