The Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) Academy, has launched a groundbreaking digital skills training programme aimed at building the technological capacity of Nigeria’s tertiary education sector. This initiative is designed to equip Nigerian students and academic staff with in-demand 21st-century skills, particularly in cloud technologies, artificial intelligence, and other digital innovations.
The programme forms part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), which seeks to modernise the country’s education system and bridge the digital divide. Speaking on the initiative, Honourable Minister Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa described it as a “timely and transformative” step that positions Nigerian graduates and educators for success in today’s global digital economy.
UAE Tightens Rules on Nigerian Travellers, Rolls Out New Visa Options
Host Country
Nigeria (Programme delivery is coordinated through local institutions and supported virtually)
Application Deadline
Not specifically stated. However, early registration is highly recommended, as onboarding for the next implementation phase begins in the coming weeks.
Eligibility Criteria for the Digital Skills Programme
- Students enrolled in federal, state, and private tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education,
- Lecturers, instructors, and academic staff from Nigerian tertiary institutions,
- Institutional leaders such as vice-chancellors, rectors, or provosts, who are expected to nominate programme coordinators within their schools,
- Applicants with interest or experience in digital innovation, technology, cloud services, or related fields,
- Participants who can commit to the learning process and meet any technical requirements.
Programme Structure
- Pilot Phase: The programme began with the onboarding of coordinators from 43 federal universities and polytechnics,
- Current Phase: The programme is now open to all federal, state, and private tertiary institutions nationwide.
- Delivery Mode: Training is conducted online via AWS Academy platforms, supported locally through nominated coordinators.
- Programme Coordinators: Institutional heads are required to nominate representatives to manage enrolment and training oversight.
- Language: Instruction and content are delivered in English.
- Certification Sponsorship: The Federal Ministry of Education will sponsor 50% of the cost, while AWS covers the remaining 50%, making certification completely free for all participants.
Core Digital Skills Focus Areas
- Cloud Computing: Understanding the design, deployment, and management of secure cloud-based systems using AWS tools and services,
- Machine Learning: Applying ML models and techniques for data analysis, automation, and predictive insights,
- Artificial Intelligence: Gaining foundational knowledge of AI applications in real-world systems and emerging industries,
- Emerging Technologies: Exploring the latest global trends in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and virtual collaboration tools.
Benefits of the Digital Skills Programme
- Full certification sponsorship (50% from the Ministry, 50% from AWS),
- Access to globally recognised AWS Academy learning resources,
- Curriculum tailored to meet industry demand and foster employment readiness,
- Lecturers gain modern teaching tools, while students gain job-aligned digital skills.
- Opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda,
- Participation in a programme that bridges education, innovation, and global tech relevance.
Expected Outcome
- Earn internationally recognised certifications in digital skills,
- Strengthen their employability and professional relevance in technology-driven sectors,
- Contribute to building a future-ready workforce within Nigeria’s education system,
- Help institutionalise digital capacity-building within their institutions.
How to Apply for the Digital Skills Programme
- Institutional heads are to nominate coordinators who will oversee lecturer and student enrolment.
- Interested institutions should register by filling out this form.
- Early registration is advised to secure placement in the upcoming implementation phase.
- For any inquiries or clarification, contact the Ministry’s Press and Public Relations Department.
- Selection is not competitive on an individual basis but depends on institutional readiness and timely registration.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: Rolling — apply as soon as possible.
- Next Onboarding Phase: Begins in the coming weeks (exact dates to be communicated by the Ministry).
This initiative represents a significant leap in democratising access to digital education for Nigerian tertiary institutions. It ensures no student or lecturer is left behind in the ongoing shift towards a knowledge-based, technology-driven global economy.
Issued by: Mrs Boriowo Folasade,
Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education
Discover more from Leaving Nigeria
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
