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The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has formed a new committee to promote digital literacy and improve the use of Information Technology (ICT) across Nigeria. The committee, led by Emeritus Professor Olugbemiro Jegede from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), includes experts from universities, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), ICT consultants, and TETFund directors.
TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arch. Sonny Echono, highlighted the growing importance of technology in education and Nigeria’s economy. He noted that digital literacy is no longer optional but a necessity for Nigerians entering the job market. Many workers, he said, still lack the basic tech skills needed for modern business.
Echono also mentioned that there are government plans, such as aiming for 60% digital literacy among Nigerians by 2025, and 95% by 2030. TETFund, he explained, has an important role to play in helping achieve these goals by supporting institutions that train the nation’s youth.
The committee’s main job is to create a policy and action plan to improve digital skills in higher education. This includes setting up standards for digital literacy, offering training, and helping institutions certify tech skills to match global standards. The committee will also work on digitizing academic records and local theses to make them more accessible.
Echono expressed confidence that, under Jegede’s leadership, the committee will develop a clear plan to improve digital literacy across Nigeria. He believes this initiative will help the country’s students, teachers, and workers gain the skills they need to thrive in the digital world.
Professor Jegede, speaking on the committee’s role, praised TETFund’s commitment and emphasized the importance of addressing key issues like the difference between “digitization” and “digitalization” in universities. He assured the committee’s readiness to support Nigeria’s digital future.
