FG launches national policy on VSAT installation core skills with training of 600 Nigerians

Towards addressing key challenges within the I/T sector and empowering youth to become self-employed, the federal government, Monday, March 22, launched a national policy on VSAT installation core skills.

Isa Ali Ibrahim (PANTAMI), honourable minister of communications and digital economy, who led the possession, noted that the development was designed to improve the country’s digital economy.

Isa, who spoke during the launch, revealed that the Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) installation core Skills are manpower resources required by staff of the Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) in the Satellite Industry.

While linking the new policy launch to earlier inauguration made by President Muhammadu Buhari, the honourable underscored the significance of digital technology to drive innovation and the creation of job opportunities.

He said: “Digital technology drives innovation and create job opportunities which leads to economic prosperity.

“To develop and promote the digital economy for Nigeria, a National Digital Economy Policy for a Digital Nigeria was developed and launched by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on the 28th of November, 2019.

“The Policy has 8 pillars and a number of them map to this activity. These include pillar #2 (Digital Literacy and Skills), #3 (Solid Infrastructure), #5 (Digital Services Development and Promotion) and #8 (Indigenous Content Development and Adoption).

“Broadband connectivity plays a critical role in the development of our digital economy and this is in line with the solid infrastructure pillar.

“As part of the implementation of this pillar, the Ministry developed a National Broadband Policy (2020-2025). Therefore, we are developing skill acquisition policies for the various infrastructure required to drive the digital economy.”

The honourable minister, however, stated that the scheme would equip 600 Nigerians with the necessary skills to be able to install a VSAT and TVRO antenna anywhere to access all available satellite-based services.