Enugu State is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its top graduates from the Enugu SME–AltSchool Digital Skills Program, awarding brand-new laptops to the highest performers as part of its bold push to develop a globally competitive digital workforce.
The Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Digital Economy and MSMEs, Arinze Chilo-Offiah, said the gesture is an affirmation of how public policy, structured support, and personal effort can unlock global potential, the laptop grants serve not only as tools but as “symbols of how access, grit, and support can transform lives.”
“This moment is more than ceremonial—it is a statement. Enugu is building a future-ready digital workforce, and these recipients are the first of many to be equipped and celebrated,” Chilo-Offiah who’s also the Director of Enugu SME Center said.
From Zero to Job-Ready in Six Months
The initiative was a rigorous six-month Full Stack Software Engineering program, delivered in partnership with AltSchool Africa—one of the continent’s leading edtech platforms. The program combined live, instructor-led courses, end-to-end software development projects, mentorship from experienced industry professionals, and globally recognized UK-accredited diplomas.
Graduates of the program are now equipped to take on opportunities both in Nigeria and internationally.
Celebrating the Best of the Best
Two standout graduates were awarded Laptop Grant Support, a gesture that underlines the State’s commitment to fostering long-term success for its digital talents.
“Getting this laptop feels like crossing a finish line and stepping onto a bigger track. I can now keep building, keep learning, and go even further. I’m deeply grateful,” said Uchechukwu Anozie, a top performer in Backend Engineering.
Ijeoma Nwakwo, a Full Stack Engineering graduate, added, “This program has changed the course of my life. The training, mentorship, and now this laptop—everything was intentional. I feel seen, supported, and ready to compete globally.”
A Model for Digital Career Development
AltSchool Africa, with over 100,000 learners across Africa and partnerships with global brands like Bybit, has proven to be more than a learning platform—it is a springboard for digital careers.
In collaboration with the Enugu SME Center, the program exemplifies how government-enabled, equity-focused education models can bridge the digital skills gap, reduce unemployment, and fuel economic growth from the bottom up.
Enrollment Extended Due to High Demand
Due to overwhelming interest, the Enugu SME–AltSchool Digital Skills Grant (EDSG) has extended its enrollment deadline to June 30, 2025, giving more Enugu youths the opportunity to benefit.
The program fee is ₦435,000, with flexible payment options including ₦217,500 upfront or ₦108,750 upfront plus ₦9,062.50 monthly for 12 months through the SME’s 0% interest Human Capital Development Loan.
Interested applicants can apply via www.enugusme.en.gov.ng/edsg or call 09128954467 for inquiries.
Enugu’s Vision for a Digital Talent Capital
This initiative aligns with Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s broader strategy to position Enugu as Nigeria’s digital talent capital. Through projects like the Digital Bridge Institute, Digital Innovation Park, and Enugu Innovation Hub (Norrsken Concept), the State is creating an end-to-end pipeline from talent identification to global employment and entrepreneurship.
“This is not just youth empowerment. It’s economic architecture. And it’s working,” Chilo-Offiah concluded.
