After the successful graduation of 20,000 youths in Cohort 1&2 of Imo State’s youth digital empowerment and employment scheme dubbed: SkillUpImo Project, this initiative has been named Public Institution of the Year.
The project under the leadership of Senator Hope Uzodinma, the State Governor, was honoured at the just concluded Startup Award at #StartupSouth8.
The State through the digital skills acquisition programme partnered technology giants such as Zinox Technologies, Cisco, Hauwei and Microsoft as well as the National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB) for certification and value optimisation of the programme.
Speaking to Techeconomy after receiving the award at the event held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Prisca Amaefule, Programme Manager; SkillupImo project, said:
“I am profoundly honored to accept this esteemed award on behalf of the SkillupImo Project. This accolade carries immense significance for all of us within SkillupImo – the students, facilitators, center coordinators, the Commissioner, and our esteemed leader, Senator Hope Uzodimma. It serves as a testament to the unwavering hard work, dedication, and commitment exhibited by our entire team, as well as the invaluable support from the government.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma for his resolute dedication to this project, which empowers Imolites with 4th revolution digital skills and provides them with essential digital tools and equipment upon graduation.
“I must also commend the Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-government, Dr Chimezie Amadi, for his unyielding efforts in executing this program, training 20,000 youths.
“A special thank you goes out to the students who have exhibited remarkable interest and determination in their pursuit of knowledge.
“To the SkillupImo management team, your relentless dedication is greatly appreciated, and this award belongs to all of us as we collectively strive to uplift the people of Imo.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to StartupSouth for this recognition. Communities like yours lend tremendous credibility to the ecosystem. You have not only imparted knowledge and support but have consistently championed tech education and adoption. Your contributions to the ecosystem are invaluable, and we thank you for all you do.
“At SkillupImo, we remain committed to our mission – imparting knowledge and bridging the digital divide. This award from StartupSouth only reinforces our resolve to continue our work.
“Once again, thank you, StartupSouth, for this prestigious award”.