From 927 Registrations to 587 Trainees: Benin Skill Fest Drives Youth Skills Transformation

The Benin Skill Fest Youth Summit has demonstrated strong impact in addressing youth unemployment and the digital skills gap, attracting 927 registrations and successfully onboarding 587 participants into structured training programmes. Held at the University of Benin, the summit created a platform for young people to gain access to practical knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

Declaring the event open, the Honourable Commissioner of the Edo State Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, Hon. Ohimai Ehijimetor, represented by Mr. Egbeobawaye Frank, Acting Director, Department of Digital Economy and Innovation, emphasized that the summit aligns strongly with the Edo State Government’s digital transformation agenda. He noted that the government is actively building a thriving digital ecosystem through platforms such as the Edo Open Data Portal and other digital initiatives designed to improve service delivery, create jobs, and position the state as a leading technology hub. He encouraged participants to take advantage of the opportunities presented by The Hive Network Africa to develop relevant digital skills, innovation, and adaptability, while highlighting the importance of collaboration between government, private sector, and organizations in driving sustainable youth development.

The summit featured insightful sessions from industry experts including Alex Adams, Executive Director of The Hive Network Africa & Convener of Benin Skill Fest; Isimeme Whyte, Founder/CIO Genius Hub Ltd; and Izoduwa Asemota Precious, who delivered impactful sessions on digital relevance, the future of work, and mindset development. Their contributions provided participants with practical insights on navigating today’s digital economy and positioning themselves for growth.

Speaking at the event, Convener Alex Adams encouraged participants to take initiative: “Your dreams will remain dreams until you chase it. Don’t wait for opportunities, create one.”

Following the summit, 587 committed participants have begun training across 10 skill tracks, with projections indicating that over 500 youths will graduate with practical digital competencies.

The organisers acknowledged the contributions of Webbiit Technologies, Ncourage Studios, LN Reporters, Perfect Illustrations, Cederfield Designs, and Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), whose support ensured a refreshing experience throughout the event.

Benin Skill Fest is steadily building a pipeline of skilled youth ready to participate in the digital economy.