Report Submitted By Olubunmi Badiora – Director of Information, Osun State Ministry of Innovation, Science, Technology & Digital Economy
With the recently approved Science, Technology and Innovation – STI, and Information, Communication Technology – ICT policies, Osun State Government has given the assurance that the present administration will collaborate with the Private Tech stakeholders to move the state tech ecosystem forward, for the advancement of technology and digital economy.
The Commissioner for the Ministry of Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy, Hon. Maruf Dele Ayofe gave the assurance while featuring on a programme organised by Private Tech Stakeholders in Osogbo, the state capital on Thursday, 22nd August 2024.
He mentioned that Osun State has witnessed significant growth since inception of this present administration, and that the innovative policies and dedication to improving the lives of the people have not only enhanced the state’s image but have also built a stronger, more resilient community.
He stated that the implementation of the new STI & ICT policies, approved by the Executive Council will be beneficial to citizens in the state, the private tech stakeholders and particularly the youths.
Hon. Ayofe while emphasising the many benefits that the STI & ICT policies will bring to the Osun Community, he said the ICT Policy is designed to promote the adoption and integration of modern technology across various sectors of the state’s economy which aims to improve digital literacy, enhance e-governance, and create a conducive environment for the growth of the ICT industry by leveraging on technology.
Speaking further, he added that the STI Policy, on the other hand, focuses on driving innovation and scientific research which aims to harness the power of science and technology to solve local challenges, create jobs, and boost the state’s competitiveness in the global market.
The commissioner commended the private tech stakeholders for organising programmes, and ge appealed that there should be continuous collaboration with the state government in order to make sure that everyone is carried along in the development of digital skills and literacy in bringing about digital economy in the state.
He also added that the policies will be made public once they are passed at the floor of the State House of Assembly and advised everyone to make judicious use of it once it is made public.
Ayofe asserted that youths in the state will be trained in various tech skills, and he also urged the youths to register for the training when the link is announced.
Hon. Maruf Dele Ayofe said the Osun state through the ministry will set up tech hubs, empower women and youths among the many programmes lined up for the citizens of the state.
He added that the State Government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke will see to the implementation of these policies with the establishment of frameworks for monitoring and evaluation, as this will ensure that the objectives of the policies are met and that the benefits are felt across all sectors of the state and these will be done with the inclusion of the private tech stakeholders in the State, he stated.