To empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the 21st century, Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in collaboration with Sightsavers International, a non-governmental organisation, recently churned out 49 students from Cohort two of the institute’s IT academy.

The academy, supported by Sightsavers International, is the second in Africa after the one in Kenya.

Sightsavers developed a well-crafted information and communication technology (ICT) capacity-building programme based on in-demand digital skill requirements, collaborating with DBI to achieve these objectives.

While 24 graduated from Lagos campus, 25 other PWDs graduated from Kano Campus of the institute, while the Enugu Campus of the DBI is also ready to receive Sightsavers to leverage on its facilities for the Southeast.

Speaking at the event in Lagos, President and Chief Executive Officer, DBI, David Daser, acknowledged the hard work and achievements of participants, noting that for PWDs who have completed their training, the occasion is a testament to their perseverance, determination, a significant milestone and a cause for celebration.

Represented by the institute’s Head of Special Duties, Viola Askia-Usoro, the DBI chief said the academy is a beacon of hope and inclusivity in Africa, while restating their commitment to bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for PWDs to participate in the digital economy fully.

He said: “Our graduates have undergone an intensive nine-month training programme, acquiring skills in Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), as well as other supporting modules, such as product management, digital marketing and e-commerce, as well as data analysis and visualisation. These skills will enable them to compete favourably in the job market and confidently pursue their passions.

“Persons with disability face barriers, stigma and discrimination that limit them from exercising their potential to actualise their dreams. These barriers include access to training and capacity development opportunities. 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 inclusion in all sectors,” he stated.

Daser added that the institute will continue to advocate for greater inclusion and accessibility in the digital economy for PWDs and other disadvantaged groups.

He stressed the need to break barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate while urging governments at all levels fully, the private sector, and businesses to create opportunities for the engagement of PWDs.

He enjoined the graduating students to make a difference, using their skills and knowledge to create positive changes in their communities and be ambassadors for inclusion and accessibility.