The European Digital SME Alliance has announced a strategic partnership with the Imo State Government, aimed at leveraging the state’s pool of IT talent to enhance the activities and operations of its members. This collaboration focuses on key areas such as digital skills development, mentoring programs, and the promotion of advanced digital solutions.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), @EUdigitalsme celebrated the development: “DIGITAL SME is glad to announce a partnership with Imo State (Nigeria) focusing on key actions in #skills development with specific planning of mentoring and #digital skills training. It marks an additional step in DIGITAL SME’s commitment to empowering #SME.”
Partnership Goals and Impact
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DIGITAL SME and Imo State outlines several key objectives:
- Promotion of Digital Solutions: Encouraging the adoption of advanced digital technologies and skills in Imo State.
- Mentoring Programs: Establishing mentorship initiatives to provide guidance and knowledge sharing.
- Digital Skills Training: Implementing training programs to equip young professionals with the necessary skills to succeed in the digital economy.
Dr. Oliver Grün, President of DIGITAL SME, expressed excitement about the partnership: “The collaboration with the Imo State Government will open up more opportunities for European Digital SMEs by providing insights into West Africa’s tech market dynamics and access to local talent. Cooperation between SMEs from like-minded regions is essential for an inclusive and innovative digital economy.”
Enhancing Local and International Opportunities
Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, highlighted the benefits for local startups and innovators: “This partnership with the European Digital SME Alliance will foster innovation and entrepreneurship, creating new market opportunities for startups in Imo State.”
Special Focus Areas
The partnership will focus on several special initiatives:
Freelancing Program: Connecting European companies with digital professionals from Imo State, enhancing professional development and contributing to the socio-economic growth of local communities.
Mentoring Program: Linking European businesses with young talents in Imo State, providing career insights and knowledge for success in national and international markets.
Digital Skills Training: Improving the quality of life by equipping young people with relevant digital skills, supported by a train-the-trainer approach to establish a Digital Skills training hub.
The European Digital SME Alliance, established in 2007, is a community of over 45,000 small and medium ICT enterprises across 30 countries. This collaboration marks a significant step in Imo State’s digital transformation journey, aligning with the Imo State Economic Agenda (IDEA) 2022 – 2026 and the SKillUp Imo project, which has trained 20,000 youths in IT skills.
