By: Alieu Amara Suwu
Dr. HajaRamatulaiWurie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, has expounded the essence of digital revolution and space to matriculating students at the College of Digital Excellence (CODE) during their matriculation ceremony held at the college located at Main Motor Road, Congo Cross on 27th October 2023.
Making her keynote address, Dr. HajaRamatulaiWurie, said the students are the human resources of the nation, andsaid few stands out to the support resource: their skills, knowledge and innovation that will drive their country forward, calling this investment as human development, which is also one of the five strategic areas that they (government) have identified.
Dr. Wurie said this is where institutions like the CODE fit a very important role in education, which is the key to unlocking the vast potential of resource, noting that it is through education that students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in this digital economy.
She wished that the curriculum was tailored to meet the needs of the digital era; it would be designed to empower the students with the tools required to thrive within this dynamic landscape; and to position them to not just be consumers of technology, but also innovators and leaders in the digital sector, but there should be a concerted effort.
She said the Government is dedicated to fostering collaboration so they look forward to potential collaboration with CODE, because as a government they believe in strong partnerships between the government private sector and educational institutions – partnerships that will drive for the digital initiative scored, especially when the job market in two fields is expanding exponentially.She said there is a growing demand for professionals in areas like data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and software development.
She therefore reminded the students that their educationis a ticket to a world of opportunities, but it is also essential for them to remember that learning does not end after graduation, for the digital landscape is ever evolving, and continuous skills development is a necessity, thus encouraged all of them to seek lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge throughout their career.
She reiterated that, as government, their focus is on digital inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind; hence it is imperative to understand that human capital development; and digitalization is core to the national development agenda.
Niharika Agnari, Co-founder and Director of CODE, taking a moment to reflect on the significance of the ceremony, said matriculation is not just a formality, it symbolizes the beginning of an extra ordinary adventure, and marks the moment when promising students become an integral part of our academic family.
The Director said each one of student brings unique talents, dreams, and aspirations, and together they form a diverse community with the potential to achieve great things.
She explained that the quality of digital excellence was founded with a vision, a vision that goes beyond traditional education. She said, “We aim to nature nurture the next generation of digital leaders, innovators, and problem solvers. In a world increasingly defined by technology and the digital landscape, the importance of your education here cannot be overstated. Our curriculum is designed to empower you with knowledge and skills that are not only relevant today, but also adaptable for the challenges of tomorrow.”
She emphasized that, as thestudentsstep into the college, there is a responsibility that comes with the privilege, noting that the digital age has presented them with countless opportunities, but it has also raised complex ethical, social, and environmental questions. She therefore encouraged them to not only be proficient in their chosen field, but also to be conscious and be responsible digital citizens. She entreated them to embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories and always strive for excellence.
Josephus Sawyer, Acting Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Commission, established that fact that College of Digital Excellence is a certified accredited institution of the Tertiary Education Commission.
He explained that CODE’s particular application was given consideration and a team of experts were put together and visited the institution for suitability accreditation. He added that accreditation was granted at the initial stage for a Category C institution, which they consider for Diploma and Higher National Diploma. However, he said it did not stop there;from 2021 to date, the institution as an exemplary force has grown to another level and has aspired for another category, which is a Category B, to offer undergraduate programs.
Asmaa James, an advocate for girls and owner of Rise Radio, encouraged the students especially girls to be focused and consider themselves as the nation’s assets.
The ceremony ended with over 40 students signing the college register.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Monday 30th October, 2023 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
