Google West Africa Deepens Collaboration with NITDA to Drive Digital Jobs
By Chimezie Godfrey
Google West Africa recently introduced Mr. Olumide Balogun as its new Director for the continent. In a meeting with the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, Google expressed its commitment to strengthen the partnership between the two organizations.
During the visit to NITDA’s headquarters in Abuja, Mr. Balogun highlighted the importance of the visit, stating that it aimed to reaffirm Google West Africa’s dedication to deepening the partnership. He emphasized the need for collaboration to achieve the Nigerian President’s goal of creating 1 million digital jobs, as Google recognizes that it cannot thrive in isolation.
Mr. Balogun also mentioned that Google has been working on Africa Internet for over eight years. In 2015, Google announced its transition from a mobile-first company to an AI-first company during its premier developer event. He expressed amusement at the GPT conversations, referring to the chatbot created by OpenAI and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on Google’s operations.
In addition, Google is currently working on a document that will detail the impact of Artificial Intelligence in Africa. The document is set to launch at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa in September. In this regard, Mr. Balogun invited NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, to deliver the keynote address at the event.
NITDA’s Vision for Digital Job Creation in Nigeria
Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General of NITDA, shared his belief that by working together, NITDA and Google can create 1 million digital jobs in Nigeria. He highlighted NITDA’s efforts to position the country for accelerated job creation in the digital economy.
Inuwa mentioned the Nigeria Startup Act, which identifies initiatives such as talent development that can facilitate job creation. He stressed Nigeria’s potential to bridge the digital gap due to its youthful population. Inuwa stated that the government’s role is to intervene through policies, regulations, and infrastructure when necessary. The objectives of regulations should be to create a market, democratize access to services, protect consumers, enhance service delivery, and promote innovation.
NITDA advocates for non-rule-based regulations, allowing ecosystem players to self-regulate and establish standards. The agency’s approach focuses on co-creation with the ecosystem and changing the mindset about government regulations and policies.
Positioning Nigeria in the Digital Transformation Era
Inuwa highlighted Nigeria’s potential to bridge the digital transformation gap and become a key player in global GDP. He mentioned that in 2018, digitally transformed enterprises contributed 18.5% to the global GDP, projected to reach 53.3% in the current year. The generative AI alone is expected to add about 7 trillion US dollars to the global economy.
NITDA’s partnership with Google Developers Group has already resulted in the training of 150,000 youths in Nigeria. The agency aims to expand its training program, currently running at the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in Abuja, to other states in collaboration with the GDG. NITDA also plans to establish technology development zones in partnership with universities to promote smart manufacturing.
In terms of investment, NITDA seeks to establish a seed investment fund for startups to attract more funding. In 2019, only 3.5% of the total investment of over 626 billion US dollars went to Africa, despite its vast population. NITDA is eager to collaborate with stakeholders to implement these ideas and leverage Nigeria’s potential for growth.
Related
Editor Notes: Encouraging Progress in Digital Job Creation
The collaboration between Google West Africa and NITDA highlights the commitment to drive digital job creation in Nigeria. With the aim of creating 1 million digital jobs, both organizations are working towards promoting technological development, talent development, and investment opportunities.
Nigeria’s youthful population and its potential for bridging the digital transformation gap make it a promising player in the global economy. By investing in technology, creating supportive policies, and fostering collaboration with universities and startups, Nigeria can further accelerate job creation and pave the way for a thriving digital economy.
It is encouraging to see NITDA taking a proactive approach to regulation, advocating for self-regulation within the ecosystem. This approach allows for flexibility, innovation, and responsible practices, ensuring that the digital platform landscape remains ethical and accountable.
The partnership between Google West Africa and NITDA sets an example for other organizations and countries looking to drive digital job creation and foster technological advancements. Collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives can enable the realization of Nigeria’s digital transformation goals and position the country as a key player in the global digital economy.
For more news and updates on technology, AI advancements, and digital job creation, visit GPT News Room.
from GPT News Room https://ift.tt/40FlGQI
No comments:
Post a Comment