Monrovia – Madam Edwina Crump Zackpah, Chairperson of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) Board of Directors, has announced the LTA’s commitment to implementing President Joseph Boakai’s initiative to provide digital skills training for 10,000 young people within six months of his administration.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh – gerald.koinyeneh@frontpageafricaonline.com

Addressing the House on Tuesday, Madam Zackpah emphasized that equipping 10,000 young Liberians with digital skills will drive ICT usage and contribute to the nation’s digital advancement. She stated that the program aims to foster digital literacy, prepare the youth for digital success, and bolster economic growth.

“We are not just teaching technology; we are empowering our youth for job creation and economic prosperity. This initiative is both inclusive and ambitious, targeting 10,000 students from all 15 counties of Liberia, ensuring gender balance,” she explained in a video presentation played during her appearance.

The training will encompass essential skills including basic computer proficiency, mobile technology, e-commerce, and e-learning tools. Madam Zackpah emphasized the significance of providing youths with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the digital age, marking a pivotal step towards national digital transformation.

Over a three-month period, the digital skills training will be conducted nationwide, with the LTA planning to evaluate the program’s effectiveness to refine strategies and inform future decisions.

Speaking to reporters earlier before her presentation, Zackpah emphasized that Liberia’s digital skills project is a vital component of a broader vision for digital inclusivity and progress. She expressed gratitude for President Boakai’s endorsement of the initiative and assured full commitment from the LTA to its successful implementation.

To ensure success, Zackpah disclosed that the LTA will collaborate with partners such as 231 Data and Tamma Corporation, among others, to drive Liberia’s digital transformation forward.

During his first state of the nation address, President Boakai pledged to launch a digital transformation program benefiting 10,000 young people nationwide within the first half of 2024.

Following Zackpah’s presentation, lawmakers tasked the committee on post and telecommunications to liaise with the LTA to gather detailed plans and strategies for program implementation, with a report due within three weeks.