Taraba state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global blockchain giant, Algorand Foundation to train hundreds of youths in the state in blockchain technology and software development.
The training programme, which is being sponsored by Algorand, is aimed at introducing young people in the state to the latest innovations in blockchain technology and equip them with skills on software development.
Speaking at the event, the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas stated that the state is willing to partner with a reputable organization like Algorand that can train and enhance the skills and capacities of youths in the state in technological innovations.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, the governor noted that the collaboration between the state and Algorand Foundation would improve competitiveness in local technology and impact positively on the growth of the state and national economy.
He enjoined the beneficiaries of the training programme to take advantage of the opportunity to empower themselves with relevant skills that would transform their lives and open windows of opportunities for them.
In his speech, Country Head of Algorand Foundation, Benjamin Onuoha, described blockchain technology as a very powerful technology and database that can be deployed to do a lot of things ranging from decentralized and secure identity management and information sharing in a secured and very fast manner.
Other uses of blockchain, according to Onuoha, is to tackle the problem of piracy and counterfeiting as it can be used to determine the authenticity of goods particularly in the local manufacturing sector as well as in supply chain management to reduce fraud and promote transparency.
He however stressed that the main objective of the training programme is to train software developers in the state on how to create software solutions that would impact positively on the economy of the state.
On his part, Taraba State Commissioner of Digital Economy and Innovation, Gideon Nonso disclosed that Taraba is the second state in Nigeria after Plateau state to benefit from the training programme being conducted by the Algorand Foundation.
Describing the training as timely, the Commissioner revealed that the state has already put machinery in motion to establish a technology village in the state which would serve as catalyst to technical advancement in the state.
Most of the young participants who spoke at the training expressed their gratitude to Algorand foundation for forging strategic partnerships that will empower the youths and advance blockchain adoption in Nigeria.