Innovation in Education: Nigeria’s NITDA Unveils Plan to Unbundle Computer Science for IT Skills Enhancement

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has unveiled a strategic initiative to address Nigeria’s existing Information Technology (IT) skills gap. In an official statement released by Mrs. Hadiza Umar, the Head of Corporate Affairs and External Relations at NITDA, the agency highlights the pivotal role played by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in the unbundling of Computer Science programs at polytechnics.

NITDA, in collaboration with CC Hub, conducted an IT Skills Gap Assessment, identifying 12 in-demand IT skills locally and internationally. To address this gap, the agency proposes dividing the Computer Science program into four specialized areas: Artificial Intelligence, Network & Cloud Computing, Software & Web Development, and Cybersecurity & Data Protection. In a transformative move, NITDA acknowledges the significance of this initiative, describing it as not only a game-changer in Nigeria’s IT sector but also a seismic shift in equipping graduates with skills crucial for navigating the digital revolution. The unbundling is expected to position polytechnics as focal points for nurturing young talent capable of addressing specific challenges and leveraging opportunities in emerging technologies.

Commending the NBTE for its implementation, NITDA underscores the importance of Artificial Intelligence, Network and Cloud Computing, Software and Web Development, and Cybersecurity and Data Protection. The agency has established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) as specialized vehicles to groom talent and equip individuals with the necessary skills for success in the digital realm. NITDA views this initiative as a significant step towards promoting the growth of the IT sector and enhancing the capabilities of the nation’s workforce. Emphasizing collaboration among educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies, the agency stresses the need for a collective effort to ensure the successful implementation of these specialized fields.

The backstory reveals that the Executive Director of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, officially announced the unbundling of Computer Science programs on January 8 through a letter addressed to heads of polytechnics and relevant institutions. The introduction of the four specialized courses aims to align educational institutions with emerging trends in the IT sector, with plans to phase out students already admitted into the former Computer Science program by 2025.