The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has wrapped up a six-week digital skills training for people with disabilities (PWDs) in Kano State, empowering participants with foundational digital and computer skills.
Yusuf Ibrahim Sharada, the Senior Special Assistant on ICTs to the Kano State Governor, lauded CITAD’s initiative and promised to champion the inclusion of PWDs in the state workforce.
“This training couldn’t be more timely, and I personally commit to advocating for job opportunities for these graduates,” Sharada affirmed.
CITAD’s training coordinator, Ahmad Abdullahi Yakasai, reiterated the organization’s focus on bridging the technology gap for marginalized groups.
“Our mission is a society where technology is accessible to all, with no discrimination,” Yakasai noted.
Speaking on behalf of the Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Development, Malam Ibrahim Lamido highlighted the ministry’s support for PWD empowerment initiatives.
“Our ministry is firmly committed to including PWDs across all government initiatives,” he stated, adding that they plan to collaborate with CITAD on projects promoting PWD inclusion.
CITAD’s PWD Coordinator, Hamza Aminu Fagge, acknowledged the participants’ dedication and urged the government to actively involve PWDs in its plans.
“We encourage the government to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity at every level,” Fagge said.
Program participant Maryam Aminu Muhammad thanked CITAD and the MacArthur Foundation, saying, “This training has given PWDs the recognition and skills to make meaningful contributions.”
This milestone follows CITAD’s launch of a Digital Training Hub for PWDs, Northwestern Nigeria’s first, with an ambition to train over 300 PWDs in digital skills.