Bridging Gender Gap: Kogi Govt Recognizes Exceptional Graduates of Heritage Foundation's Tech Training »

In a move to empower young female students in the state, the Kogi State Government through the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education presented cash gifts, ICT Schorlaship, Secondary School Text Books to exceptional graduates and students of the Cohort 2 Kogi “GirlsTech” 2024 Event, organized by Heritage and Legacy Foundation.

The event, which was held in Lokoja on Saturday in collaboration with BrainPals Training Institute saw a cross section of secondary school girls across the state. The graduating students acquired skills in three main areas: Web design and coding, graphic design and digital literacy.

The founder of the foundation, Hassan Abdul, in his address, stated that empowering women in the ICT sector is not just a matter of gender equality’; it is a crucial driver of economic and social development for Kogi State and beyond. He noted that ICT is now a major driver of inovation in every sectors such as agriculture tourism and hospitality, healthcare and construction, stressing that Kogi’s highly intelligent workforce can gain a significant advantage with more emphasis placed on the adoption and ulitisation of ICT skills.

Meanwhile, the Kogi State Government, through the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education demonstrated a strong commitment to equipping the youth of the state with 21st-century skills. This initiative is in line with the state’s efforts to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry.

At the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education, Hon. Hauwa Kazeem provided cash prizes to the best graduating students, gift to the most consistent student, secondary school textbooks and internship opportunities.

Additionally, Bathawlome Gift, a deserving student of Crowther Memorial College, Lokoja, received an ICT skill scholarship, courtesy of Mega Tech Solutions, in partnership with the Senior Special Assistant’s office.

“The world is rapidly changing, and technology is becoming an integral part of our future. Therefore, we must prepare ourselves, especially girls and women, to navigate and shape this future. By embracing ICT skills and leadership roles, we will be empowered to drive innovation, bridge the gender gap, and create a more equitable and sustainable future for us all.

“The administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, is not only passionate about education but particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics. We are committed to implementing the vision where every Kogites is included in the global direction and every Kogi youth is empowered with digital skills. We are proud to support this initiative, empowering girls to become future tech leaders,” said the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education.

Other speakers included, Mrs. Folusho Owoeye, former state coordinator, Nigerian Women in Information Technology; Prof. Abel Joseph, President, US Exchange Program, Kogi State Chapter; and Mrs. Khadijat Abubakar Isa, Founder, Crystal Youth and Women Empowerment, Kogi State.

The Heritage and Legacy Foundation’s efforts have made a significant impact on bridging the gender gap in tech, and the organization’s dedication to promoting tech education and bridging the gap between academia and industry is commended by stakeholders.