Krystal Digital Solutions Limited on Thursday launched the second cohort of its digital skills training programme, a key component of the World Bank-supported Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills project.
The IDEAS project is part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy, through the Ministry of Education, to address skill gaps in Nigeria’s workforce.
Funded by a World Bank credit facility, the project targets building a robust framework for skill acquisition, with a focus on industry relevance, job creation, and private sector participation.
Krystal Digital Solutions is one of 14 grantees selected to implement the IDEAS project, tasked with driving digital skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development across Nigeria.
Speaking at the event in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of Krystal Digital Solutions, Temitope Ogunsemo, emphasised the importance of equipping young Nigerians with digital skills to ensure their relevance in an increasingly digital world.
“What we’ve achieved today is significant for the youth because it’s a launch that shapes the future generation,” Ogunsemo said.
“We live in a global village, and to remain relevant in the future workplace, there is a critical need for digital skills.”
He said without these skills, it is difficult to thrive in today’s world.
“Even the national curriculum now mandates that graduates from universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education must possess digital skills. It’s essential for everyone, regardless of their profession, to navigate the modern world effectively.”
The programme, initially designed to train over 700 participants, has already surpassed its target.
Ogunsemo revealed that the first cohort included 400 participants, while the second cohort currently has about 300 individuals.
“Although some participants faced challenges transitioning from virtual to physical training due to location or logistical issues, we’ve ensured that those who were available and ready to commit received comprehensive training,” the CEO said.
The programme follows a structured process: it starts with virtual training, followed by physical classes, and concludes with internships.
He emphasised the importance of the internship stage, where participants apply their acquired skills in professional environments.
“The internships allow participants to utilise what they’ve learned—whether through virtual or in-person training—and take their knowledge to a professional level,” he stated.
While the project primarily focuses on graphic design, Ogunsemo highlighted its potential to serve as a gateway to advanced fields like UI/UX design and software engineering.
“For instance, one participant joined as a graphic designer and has already transitioned to UI/UX design.
He’s now working with the engineering department to develop software. This demonstrates how the training opens pathways to broader opportunities in the tech ecosystem,” he said.
The flag-off ceremony also featured a business pitch session, where participants from the first cohort shared their success stories to inspire the new cohort.
Some alumni have already achieved remarkable milestones, contributing innovative solutions to the digital economy.
The National Project Coordinator at the Federal Ministry of Education, Blessing Ogwu, represented by the National Consultant on Innovation Grants Facilities of the IDEAS Project, Professor Ndem Ndiyo, stated, “Today, you are proving to the world that you’ve embarked on this journey.”
She added, “While the project officially began earlier this year, the first cohort of trainees has already completed their training and internships, setting a high standard for those joining now.”
Ogwu credited the partnership with the World Bank for enabling the project’s success. “Our collaboration with the World Bank has allowed us to push these skills to the younger generation, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in their future workplaces,” Ogwu explained.
