- The President| Chief Executive Officer Digital Bridge Institute ( DBI)
Mr.David Daser has said that
Persons with Disability( PWDs) face barriers, stigma and discrimination, that limit them from exercising their potential to actualize their dreams.This was just as he called on Government, Private Sector Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations and Businesses to create opportunities for the engagement of PWDs.
Mr.Daser made the call on Thursday during the graduation ceremony of 25 PWDs held at the IT Bridge Academy, a pioneering initiative empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs) with digital skills,in Collaboration with Sightsavers Nigeria celebrated the graduation of its second cohort in Kano.
According to him,”These barriers include access to training and capacity development opportunities.
He however stated that disability inclusion is a journey that is quite new to the Nigerian Society, therefore, the collaboration of all stakeholders is required to entrench a variety of systems and approaches that would promote disability inclusion in all sectors in Nigeria.
To mitigate these challenges our Partner-Sightsavers International developed a well-crafted ICT capacity-building programme based on in-demand IT skill requirements titled IT Bridge Academy.
We must work to break down barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate fully,he said
The IT Bridge Academy contributes to this goal by providing PWDs with industry-recognized certifications, enhancing their employability and other opportunities.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Sunday Isiaku, representing Sightsavers Nigeria, congratulated the 25 graduates and emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating opportunities for PWDs in the digital economy.
Sightsavers was founded in 1950 by Sir John Wilson, a visionary leader who was blinded at the age of 12 and dedicated his life to advocating for people with visual impairments.
The organisation was originally known as the British Empire Society for the Blind, with the vision of a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes and where everyone can participate equally in society.
He noted that the academy’s success is undeniable, and its impact will continue to inspire others.
Mr Isiaku emphasised that at
Sightsavers, we firmly believe that disability should never be a barrier to employment or economic independence.The IT Bridge Academy was designed to bridge the gap in digital skills and create pathways to meaningful careers for persons with disabilities.
This program is not just about education; it is about economic empowerment, inclusion, and proving that talent-not disability-should define a person’s opportunities.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf represented by the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on ICT Malam Yusuf Sharada lauded the Commitment of sightsavers and the IT academy for their unwavering dedication to empowering People living with disability.
“This administration accords much priority in uplift the well being of PWDs ,This training is in the right direction,and we are seeing you as partners in progress”
He urged the graduands to make adequate utilization of the knowledge and be good ambassadors of their family,the state and the Nation at large.
Executive Director Ingausa Engineer Mustapha Habu said people living with disability Deserved special respect and honor ,saying PWDs have special abilities in them ,hence the training was very timely.
Speaking on behalf of the graduants Mr Peter Gwer extend their heart full regards to sightsavers and IT Brigade academy for investing in them ,saying they will ensure that the investment was not left in Vain.
“Our graduation is not the end ,but a beginning of a New Era. We call on national and international companies to create job opportunities us,and we assure you that we’ll never let the confidence repose ok us down”
The Ceremony was graced by parents ,care givers of the PWDs and other stakeholders.