By Omoruyi Patricia Osayomore
Digital training, also known as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training, has had a profound impact on the contemporary public service of Edo State since the inception of the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. Under his leadership, the infusion of digital skills among the workforce has ushered in numerous enhancements within the public service. The transformation encompasses the creation of a more conducive working environment, the modernization of office spaces, the streamlined implementation of policies, the adoption of flexible approaches to tasks execution, and a comprehensive organizational overhaul through advanced internet connectivity that spans across all departments.
The current administration has made prioritizing of digital training a central commitment to ensure that every member of the Edo State civil/public service is well-equipped to thrive in the digital revolution era. While the Edo State Government had previously conducted various training and retraining initiatives in collaboration with the State Information Communication Technology Agency and other ICT related agencies, a recent round of training focused on essential digital skills, has been successfully completed.
Consequently, certifications were recently conferred upon all participants who have excelled in this training programme. The award ceremony took place in Benin City at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, marking another significant milestone in reinforcing the existing digital knowledge base among the State’s workforce, with the ultimate goal of positioning Edo as a digital hub in Nigeria.
During the presentation of basic digital skills certificates to successful participants, the Edo State Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa Esq., stressed the importance of leveraging these newfound digital competencies for personal growth and development. He encouraged participants to use their training to make positive contributions to the advancement of the Edo State’s e-governance system.
In today’s rapidly changing and fiercely competitive global environment, digitalization has become the cornerstone of national survival and development. Over the past few decades, digitalization has played an increasingly pivotal role in various facets of human endeavours on the international stage. Edo State is committed to setting the pace in digital governance within Nigeria. Thus, the endorsement and deployment of digital knowledge across the entire Edo State workforce is not just a necessity, but also a strategic imperative to equip every Edolite for a promising future.
Recognizing that no nation can attain its full potential without harnessing digital tools, the Edo State Government has provided the necessary technology to its staff. Additionally, a series of training and educational programmes on the practical applications and maintenance of these tools have been implemented. The remarkable transformation witnessed in public service as a result of digital innovations have prompted the State Government to integrate digitalization seamlessly into the daily lives of its employees. As a result, September 1st, 2023, marks the official transition to a completely paperless governance system in Edo, underscoring the State’s unwavering commitment to embracing digital progress.
