News
UNESCO Trains Civil Servants On Digital Transformation And Artificial Intelligence
Joel Ajayi
In an era where technology is rapidly reshaping industries, economies, and governance structures, digital transformation has become a necessity rather than a choice. It lies at the core of policy formulation and service delivery in the public sector.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya emphasized this in Abuja on Monday during a capacity-building workshop on digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI), organized by the Ministry, in collaboration with UNESCO.
Represented by Mr. Joseph Oluwole, Director of General Service in the Ministry, Olubunmi in his opening remarks stated that the public sector, being central to governance and service delivery, must evolve to meet the ever-changing expectations of citizens.
“Governments worldwide are increasingly leveraging AI, big data, and digital technologies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in public service,” he noted.
In his own remarks, Mr. Joshi Manish , Representative of UNESCO highlighted the pervasive impact of digitalization on all aspects of life.
“For digital transformation to succeed, governments must change the way they function and adopt a whole-of-society, inclusive approach. This requires adapting governance models and structures to address the new challenges and opportunities presented by digital technologies,” Manish said.
He further explained that research has revealed significant gaps in digital competencies within governments, particularly in the Global South.He also observed that many digital transformation projects fail not only due to lack of IT infrastructure and policy frameworks but also because of insufficient digital skills within government institutions.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Olagunju Idowu, Secretary-General of NATCOM-UNESCO, stressed that digital transformation is essential for integrating technology into all aspects of governance to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
“Civil servants who undergo this training will improve their problem-solving abilities, prediction and projection skills, as well as overall efficiency in handling future challenges. Additionally, the training will facilitate better data management, transparency, and accountability in government operations,” Idowu stated.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Ibidapo Okunnu, Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, highlighted that the training is aimed at equipping management and mid-level officers with essential digital literacy skills to navigate today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.
“Digital transformation is no longer optional but a necessity for effective communication, governance, and national development,” Okunnu remarked.
He urged participants to share their newly acquired knowledge with colleagues to maximize institutional benefits.
The participants for the training were drawn from staff of both the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and Federal Ministry of Information & National Orientation.
News
Tinubu, PDP Hail Gov Okpebholo’s Road Infrastructural Revolution in Edo
Joel Ajayi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded the infrastructural strides of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, particularly the ongoing construction of the state’s first-ever flyover bridge, describing it as a landmark intervention in easing urban traffic and modernizing Edo’s transport system.
The President extolled the governor’s foresight in embarking on the one-kilometre flyover project at Ikpoba Hill in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, noting that its completion would transform vehicular movement and strengthen the urban fabric of Benin City.
Tinubu praised Okpebholo’s early performance in office, affirming that the governor had set a new standard of governance in Edo.
The president represented by the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, emphasized that the governor’s bold approach to road and bridge construction in the State underscores the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) progressive agenda.
“This is a 24-span structure, each span measuring 20 meters, amounting to a one-kilometre bridge. The quality and pace of work are impressive. Edo is witnessing a first, and I believe more such projects should follow in Benin City to address the heavy traffic,” Umahi conveyed on behalf of the President.
The Minister contrasted the efficiency of state-driven projects with some federal contracts, lamenting that contractors often display greater discipline when working under governors than when handling federal assignments.
He pledged to enforce stricter accountability standards at the federal level to ensure value for money and timely delivery.
“I commend Governor Okpebholo for insisting on concrete technology. Roads built with reinforced concrete last 50 to 100 years, saving scarce resources. Nigeria cannot continue to spend on recurring reconstruction. We must invest in durability,” Umahi stressed.
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