From Mu’awuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commissioned a Digital Learning Centre built by the Katsina Local Government Council to promote digital literacy and technological development.
The facility was inaugurated on Monday and is aimed at equipping youths with relevant digital skills required in today’s rapidly evolving technological environment.
Speaking at the event, Governor Radda said the fully equipped centre underscored the importance of grassroots development in preparing young people for global digital demands.
He commended the Chairman of Katsina Local Government, Hon. Isah Miqdad, for initiating and completing what he described as a forward-looking project capable of delivering long-term benefits to youths and the wider society.
“The importance of this Digital Learning Centre cannot be over-emphasised. It is timely, strategic and fully aligned with the direction the world is moving,” Radda said.
The governor explained that the centre is fitted with modern ICT infrastructure designed to provide hands-on training in computer usage, ICT operations and general digital literacy, noting that the skills to be acquired would enhance education, employment prospects and productivity.
“Digital skills are no longer optional. The world has fully embraced technology, and our youths must be prepared to compete, innovate and succeed,” he added.
Radda also noted that Katsina State has recorded measurable progress in digital literacy and ICT development, attributing this to the efforts of the State ICT Directorate, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning Katsina as a technology-driven and innovation-friendly state.
He described the location of the centre within Katsina metropolis as strategic and accessible, adding that its proximity would benefit many youths, especially as examinations such as JAMB and WAEC have transitioned to computer-based testing.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Katsina Local Government, Hon. Isah Miqdad, said the establishment of the Digital Learning Centre was inspired by Governor Radda’s reform agenda, particularly the granting of financial autonomy to the 34 local government councils in the state.
He said the project, completed within five weeks despite limited resources, reflected the council’s commitment to legacy-driven development aimed at promoting digital literacy, creativity and employable skills among youths.
“We are already working towards securing national ICT examination and JAMB CBT accreditation for this centre, which will ease the burden on students and expand access to higher education,” Miqdad said.
Also speaking, a representative of the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, the Head of Partnership Division, Mr. Bashir Ibrahim, described the centre as a strategic investment in human capital that aligns with NITDA’s Digital Literacy for All initiative.
“This centre goes beyond infrastructure; it is about inclusion, opportunity and equipping young people with relevant digital skills for the modern economy,” Ibrahim said.
He urged proper utilisation, maintenance and sustainability of the facility to ensure long-term impact.