NECA Employability Scheme
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) is committed to addressing Nigeria’s unemployment challenges and fostering job creation. Since 2020, NECA has created several platforms to connect employers with skilled job seekers and to promote employability.
With Nigeria’s unemployment rate reaching 40.6% in 2023, the need for proactive solutions has never been greater. Unemployment impacts businesses through heightened insecurity, increased poverty, and reduced consumer purchasing power.
Why Participate in NECA’s Talent Network?
NECA has developed a Job Seekers’ Database for employers to access CVs and profiles of talented individuals. This initiative provides an ongoing platform for connecting with potential employees beyond the Job Fair.
By utilizing NECA’s job seekers’ database, your organization can:
- Access Top Talent: Tap into a diverse pool of qualified individuals with skills aligned to your industry.
- Enhance Your Brand: Position your company as an employer of choice, fostering a positive reputation in the market.
- Expand Your Network: Connect with other reputable organizations across various sectors for collaboration and growth opportunities.
- Support the Economy: Contribute to reducing unemployment and giving hope to Nigeria’s future workforce.
NECA ICT ACADEMY
Introduction
The NECA Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Academy, Lagos, was established in 2020 as part of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) Employability Scheme. This initiative aims to empower young Nigerians with cutting-edge ICT skills to enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
The Academy provides a platform for qualified young Nigerians with sound character and strong learning potential to undergo intensive training in various ICT disciplines, including:
- Python Programming,
- International Computer Driving License (ICDL),
- Digital Marketing,
- Graphics Design, and
- Web Design and many more.
Objectives
The NECA ICT Academy is committed to achieving the following objectives:
- Equip participants with essential knowledge and skills in Information and Communication Technology.
- Offer globally recognized certifications in computer and internet proficiency.
- Introduce participants to the fundamentals of Digital Marketing, Graphics Design, and Web Design and other relevant technical trainings.
- Provide in-depth mentorship opportunities to foster entrepreneurship and equip participants to establish and manage sustainable technology-based businesses.
The Programme
Admitted candidates enjoy:
- Free Tuition: The training is provided at no cost to participants.
- Lunch and Stipend: To support the trainees during the program.
The program is currently non-residential, and participants are responsible for arranging their accommodation for the duration of the training.
Requirements for Admission
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years.
- Possess any of the following qualifications:
- Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE),
- Ordinary National Diploma (OND),
- Higher National Diploma (HND), or
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc).
Achievements
Since its inception, the NECA ICT Academy, in collaboration with the ITF-NECA Technical Skills Development Project (TSDP), has achieved remarkable milestones:
- Trained 225 Young Nigerians: Over the past five years, the Academy has trained 45 participants annually in Python Programming, ICDL, Digital Marketing, Graphics Design, and Web Design.
- Partnership with International Labour Organisation (ILO): In 2021, the Academy partnered with the ILO to deliver a one-month free training on Web Design for 45 Nigerian youths, equipping them with employable skills and fostering entrepreneurial spirit. The comprehensive curriculum covered:
- Web Design Fundamentals,
- HTML and CSS,
- Themes and Plugins,
- E-commerce and Landing Pages, and more.
- Current Partnership with Hayes Initiatives: Twenty-five trainees are undergoing specialized training in Product Design and Data Analytics, further expanding the Academy’s scope.
Prospective Partnerships
To enhance the Academy’s impact, NECA ICT Academy has identified potential partnerships with reputable organizations, including:
- International Labour Organisation (ILO),
- GIZ – SKYE,
- National Board of Technical Education (NBTE), and
- Prince Trust Initiative.
The NECA ICT Academy, Lagos, is a beacon of hope for young Nigerians seeking to develop ICT skills that are globally relevant and locally impactful. Through strategic partnerships and innovative training programs, the Academy remains committed to reducing unemployment and fostering a generation of empowered entrepreneurs and professionals in Nigeria’s tech-driven economy.
