Nigerians interested in acquiring digital skills can apply for free training through the Federal Government-backed Digital Training Academy, which offers government-sponsored learning licences in partnership with Coursera.

The programme is part of the National Skilling Project and is designed to help Nigerians develop skills that can improve their employability and opportunities in the digital economy.

According to the academy’s official website, 36,000 Nigerians are to be enrolled in the programme, with training covering more than 10 skill areas across all 37 states. The programme is fully sponsored by the Federal Government, meaning successful participants do not pay for the learning licence.

What can Nigerians learn?

The Digital Training Academy lists several high-demand areas, including:

* Software Development
* Cloud Technologies
* Cybersecurity
* IT Automation
* AI and Machine Learning
* Connected Technologies
* FinTech
* Parallel Computing
* Quantum Computing
* Natural Language Processing (NLP)

The AI and Machine Learning track, for instance, focuses on building intelligent systems using artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep-learning technologies.

The academy says the courses are delivered through Coursera, allowing participants to learn from global experts.

Who can apply?

The programme is targeted at Nigerians seeking to acquire or improve digital and professional skills. Students, job seekers and working professionals can participate, making it suitable for people looking to enter the technology industry or upgrade their existing skills.

How to apply

Interested Nigerians can apply through the Digital Training Academy portal.

The registration process begins with creating an account using a National Identification Number and phone number.

Applicants are then required to complete their profiles by providing information about their background, interests and career goals.

After completing the profile, applicants take a pre-assessment designed to determine their existing skill level and help place them on an appropriate learning path.

The academy’s official website outlines the process as, create an account using your NIN and phone number, complete your profile with your background, interests and career goals, take the pre-assessment to determine your current skill level, and start learning after receiving your assessment result and learning pathway.

Is the training really free?

Yes. The Digital Training Academy states that the programme is fully sponsored by the Federal Government of Nigeria and provides free learning licences.

The academy also says training centres have been established across the country with internet access and learning devices, meaning applicants without personal computers or reliable internet access can still participate.

Will participants receive certificates?

The programme provides certificates to participants who successfully complete the required training and assessments. The academy currently lists 36,000 certificates to be awarded alongside the 36,000 learners to be enrolled.

How long does the training take?

The duration depends on the selected learning track and level. The programme combines online learning with other forms of support, including facilitated learning and practical activities.

Applicants should note that the academy does not publicly list every individual Coursera course under each track. The specific learning pathway becomes available through the learner’s dashboard after registration and assessment.

Where can I register?

Interested Nigerians can register through the official Digital Training Academy portal: https://dta.education.gov.ng/onboarding