The Federal Government has launched the DeepTech Ready Upskilling Program as part of its broader strategy to transform Nigeria into a digital powerhouse. Spearheaded by Minister Bosun Tijani—now serving as the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy—the initiative aims to equip 20,000 young Nigerians with advanced skills in data science and artificial intelligence.
The program is designed as a six‐month per cohort training course that combines self-paced online learning with on-site sessions and continuous digital support. Participants will receive training in advanced data analysis and visualization, machine learning, data architecture, geospatial data science, computer vision, natural language processing, and advanced machine learning techniques. Open to 3MTT fellows and individuals with basic to intermediate technical knowledge, the program is set to boost Nigeria’s burgeoning tech talent pool.
Minister Bosun Tijani emphasized that DeepTech Ready is a critical step in achieving the country’s ambition to become a leading hub for digital skills. “Young people across Nigeria can apply here to get a unique opportunity to advance their tech skills in emerging technologies—and apply their skillset for the growth of our digital economy,” he said. This initiative also complements the existing 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, which has already seen significant participation in its previous cohorts and continues to build Nigeria’s technical workforce.
DeepTech Ready is supported by a substantial investment from Google. As part of their commitment to support digital skills across Sub-Saharan Africa, Google has allocated a grant of nearly N2.8 billion towards the program. This grant forms part of Google.org’s broader commitment of $5.8 million to enhance digital skills initiatives across the region, reinforcing the partnership between the public sector and global tech giants.
The program arrives at a time when Nigeria is intensifying efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its economy. A year ago, the Ministry launched the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop and subsequently released the National AI Intelligence Strategy, setting the stage for a comprehensive transformation of the country’s digital infrastructure. In parallel, the AI Fund—established by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in collaboration with Google—has started awarding funding, mentorship, and cloud credits to promising tech startups.
Beyond the immediate benefits of upskilling, DeepTech Ready and related initiatives are set to create a ripple effect across Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. With hundreds of thousands of Nigerians already part of the 3MTT program, these digital training programs are expected to foster local innovation, boost economic growth, and position Nigeria as a net exporter of technical talent.
As the country works to address the persistent challenges of energy poverty and infrastructure deficits, investing in digital skills and emerging technologies is seen as critical. The DeepTech Ready program is not only about empowering individuals with advanced technical skills—it is about reshaping Nigeria’s digital future, driving innovation, and creating a more inclusive, knowledge-driven economy.
Applications for DeepTech Ready are now open, offering a timely opportunity for Nigerian youths to step into the next generation of technological advancement. With strong government backing, strategic international partnerships, and a clear vision for digital transformation, Nigeria is set to make significant strides in the global tech landscape.
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