The Federal Ministry of Youth Development in Nigeria has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Digital School, part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiative (MBRGI), to enhance digital education and practical skills for Nigerian youth. The agreement was officially signed in Dubai, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s initiative to prepare its young population for participation in the global digital economy.
The partnership stems from discussions held in July 2025 between Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, and senior officials from the UAE government and development partners. During the signing ceremony, Olawande emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating it represents “a promise to equip Nigerian youth with the skills, tools, and opportunities they need to thrive in a fast-changing digital world.”
Olawande expressed gratitude to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for their ongoing support and leadership in global development efforts. He remarked, “What we celebrate today goes beyond Nigeria. It stands as a symbol of shared responsibility, shared progress, and shared hope for the youth of both nations.”
The UAE Digital School, directed by Dr. Waleed Al Ali, is a flagship initiative under MBRGI, focused on delivering digital learning opportunities to underserved communities worldwide. Through this collaboration, Nigeria aims to utilize the school’s digital infrastructure, resources, and expertise to enhance digital inclusion and education for its youth.
The Minister commended Sapphital Limited, the ministry’s technical partner, for its contributions to the success of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) and related digital empowerment initiatives. He also acknowledged his team at the ministry for their dedication in bringing this initiative to life.
The MoU is expected to significantly accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda. By providing access to modern, skill-based education, the partnership aims to empower young Nigerians, preparing them for the future of work. The ministry remains optimistic that this collaboration will foster a new generation of digitally literate individuals capable of navigating an increasingly complex global landscape.
