Empowering inclusion: DBI trains 49 PWDs in digital skills for future
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Federal Government, through the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), is committed to bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to fully participate in the digital economy.
President of DBI, David Daser, disclosed this at the graduation ceremony of 24 PWDs in Lagos under the DBI/Sightsavers IT Bridge Academy.
He noted that the initiative, in partnership with Sightsavers International, is designed to empower PWDs with digital skills that enhance employability and economic independence.
The DBI President stated that, in addition to the Lagos graduates, 25 other PWDs have also completed their training at the Kano Campus.
He further revealed that the Enugu Campus is set to receive Sightsavers to leverage its facilities for the benefit of the Eastern region.
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According to him, the 49 graduates underwent an intensive nine-month training programme, acquiring industry-relevant skills, including Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Product Management, Digital Marketing and E-Commerce, as well as Data Analysis and Visualization.
Daser, who was represented by the Group Head of Special Duties at DBI, Viola Askia-Usoro, highlighted the importance of the training, stating that the acquired skills would enable the graduates to compete favourably in the job market and pursue their passions with confidence.
“This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the digital economy. This occasion acknowledges the hard work and achievements of our participants; PWDs who have completed their training. It is a testament to their perseverance and determination and a significant milestone and a cause for celebration,” he said.
Daser described the IT Bridge Academy as a beacon of hope and inclusivity, being the second of its kind in Africa after the Kenyan model, which is also supported by Sightsavers International.
He reiterated DBI’s commitment to ensuring PWDs have equal opportunities to participate in the digital economy.
Despite the progress made, Daser acknowledged the challenges PWDs face, including barriers, stigma, and discrimination that hinder their ability to reach their full potential. He stressed the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders to promote disability inclusion in Nigeria.
“Disability inclusion is a journey that is quite new to the Nigerian society, therefore, the collaboration of all stakeholders is required to entrench a variety of systems and approaches that would promote disability inclusion in all sectors in Nigeria,” he said.
He commended Sightsavers International for its support in developing the ICT capacity-building programme and called on government institutions, private sector organizations, and NGOs to create more opportunities for PWDs.
“To our partners, Sightsavers, we appreciate your unwavering support and commitment to this initiative. Your partnership has enabled us to create a unique and impactful program that is changing lives. To our faculty and staff, I thank you for your tireless efforts in delivering high-quality training and support to our students. Your expertise, patience, and dedication have been invaluable to our graduates,” Daser stated.
The DBI President emphasized that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes democracy, economic development, and youth empowerment through the tech ecosystem.
“The programme supports this agenda by providing opportunities for youth development, capacity building, and economic growth through the tech ecosystem. President Tinubu’s administration has emphasized the importance of economic growth and job creation. The IT Bridge Academy contributes to this goal by providing PWDs with industry-recognized certifications, enhancing their employability and other opportunities,” he added.
He also linked the initiative to the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s Strategic Plan (2023–2027), affirming that the DBI is committed to expanding the programme’s impact across Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of Sightsavers, Sunday Isiyaku, emphasized the importance of digital skills in empowering PWDs, stating that disability should never be a barrier to employment or economic independence.
“At Sightsavers, we firmly believe that disability should never be a barrier to employment or economic independence. The IT Bridge Academy was designed to bridge the gap in digital skills and create pathways to meaningful careers for persons with disabilities,” Isiyaku stated.
He further noted that the initiative is not just about education but also about economic empowerment, inclusion, and proving that talent, not disability, should define a person’s opportunities.
