The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Cisco have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide digital skills and technical education to displaced people and host communities in northeastern Nigeria. The program will be launched in three pilot schools in Borno State, home to over 2.3 million displaced individuals. Laurent de Boeck, IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to bring durable solutions to the region.
In the initial phase, 150 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and members of the host community will benefit from digital upskilling opportunities through Cisco Networking Academy. The collaboration between Cisco and IOM aims to align with local curricula and government authorities to ensure the sustainability of the project. Brian Tippens, Cisco’s senior vice president and chief social impact officer, emphasized the importance of technology as an equalizing force and highlighted the goal of empowering individuals with digital skills to enhance their employability and reduce poverty.
Clayton Naidoo, Cisco’s Senior Director for Africa, outlined plans to establish digital learning labs equipped with Cisco’s technology to support participants and connect them to business opportunities through the EDGE Centers network. The agreement between IOM and Cisco underscores a commitment to providing digital upskilling opportunities in crisis-affected communities, with a focus on education, job training, and livelihood support for displaced populations.
The partnership between IOM and Cisco reflects a broader trend of collaboration between international organizations and private sector companies to address challenges in migration management and promote sustainable outcomes for displaced populations. Through initiatives like the Cisco Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) Program, innovative technology solutions are leveraged to create inclusive communities and provide new opportunities for residents in participating countries.
With over 1,600 active or completed projects in 50 countries, the CDA Program works with government and private sector partners to drive sustainable development and economic growth through technology. By investing in digital skills training, building learning centers, and fostering partnerships with the private sector, IOM and Cisco aim to support the long-term stability and resilience of communities in crisis-affected regions like northeastern Nigeria.
The collaboration between IOM and Cisco represents a step towards empowering displaced individuals through education and digital skills training, with a focus on sustainable solutions that promote economic opportunities and social integration. By investing in the potential of vulnerable populations and leveraging the expertise of the private sector, initiatives like this one have the potential to transform the lives of displaced individuals and contribute to long-term development in conflict-affected regions.
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