The Ifedore Local Government, in partnership with the Public Service Training Institute (PSTI), Ilaramokin, has launched a transformative Youth Summer Tech-Clinic designed to equip students with vital digital skills, foster entrepreneurship, and prepare them for future opportunities in a fast-evolving world. The historic event, held in Ilaramokin, brought together government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders in youth development.
Arrival of Guests & Opening Prayer
The event began with the arrival of guests, followed by an opening prayer that set a tone of gratitude and reflection, emphasizing the importance of divine guidance in youth empowerment and nation-building.
Opening Address by the DG
The Director-General of the Public Service Training Institute, Dr. Asere Olumide, in his opening speech, commended the Ifedore Local Government for being intentional about youth development. He emphasized that the Institute has keyed into the governor’s Our EASE Agenda, especially on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, and is ready to serve as a hub for training and innovation. He highlighted that the programme was designed not only to justify government investment in PSTI but also to provide youths with lifelong skills that will position them for global competitiveness.
Opening Remark by the Chief Host
In his welcome speech, the Executive Chairman of Ifedore Local Government, Hon. Dipo Ajibola, described the initiative as a deliberate investment in the future of the youth. He noted that the programme aligns with the state government’s vision under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to promote capacity building, entrepreneurship, and innovation. According to him, empowering the youth with ICT and entrepreneurship skills is no longer a luxury but a necessity, as the world is rapidly changing. He urged the participants to take the opportunity seriously, as their lives and careers will be shaped by technology and digital knowledge.
Goodwill Messages
The event featured goodwill messages from several dignitaries:
- Hon. Gbenga Fasua, ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Akure South Local Government, commended the innovation-driven partnership between Ifedore LG and PSTI. He promised to encourage other local governments across Ondo State to emulate the model and leverage PSTI facilities to empower their people.
- Special Adviser on Youth Empowerment, in his message, encouraged the participants to see themselves as global citizens with unlimited possibilities in the digital world.
- Hon. Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development highlighted the role of digital literacy in breaking barriers for young women, stressing that empowerment must be inclusive and sustainable. Royal Father of the Day
The Alara of Ilara, HRH Oba Abiodun Adefehinti, who served as the Royal Father of the Day, graced the event with his presence. In his remarks, he praised the organisers and admonished the participating students to maximize the opportunity by learning skills that would improve their future. He also warned the youths against indulging in social vices such as Internet fraud, stressing that true prosperity lies in hard work and innovation.
Acknowledgment of Financiers & Stakeholders
The programme enjoyed the generous support of notable financiers, including Hon. Festus Akingbaso, Member of the House of Representatives representing IFEDORE/IDANRE FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY, who was ably represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Hon. Oluwole Fakologbon. His commitment to youth development in the constituency was once again demonstrated through financial and moral contributions that made the programme a reality.
Other stakeholders, including community leaders, technocrats, and well-meaning individuals, were also recognized for their support in driving this youth-focused vision.
Inspection of PSTI Digital Infrastructure
Guests and dignitaries toured the newly enhanced PSTI Digital Infrastructure, which will serve as the learning hub for the Summer Tech-Clinic. The facility inspection reaffirmed PSTI’s readiness to deliver cutting-edge training that aligns with global standards.
Unveiling of DIGITECH 2025
The high point of the event was the official unveiling of DIGITECH 2025, a holistic digital skills development agenda that seeks to institutionalize ICT training as a recurring programme within PSTI.
Vote of Thanks & Departure
The Registrar of PSTI delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the Governor, His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Ifedore Local Government, financiers, traditional rulers, and all stakeholders for making the programme a success. The event ended with a renewed sense of purpose, as participants departed with excitement and hope for a brighter digital future.
A Bold Step for the Future
The Summer Tech-Clinic, which includes a Holiday Computer Coaching Programme, this is more than just an academic exercise—it is a bridge between education, entrepreneurship, and technology. It seeks to make Ifedore youths globally competitive, broaden their horizons, and prepare them for leadership in innovation and governance.
The initiative demonstrates how synergy between local governments, financiers, and state institutions can create sustainable opportunities for the younger generation. With this bold step, Ifedore Local Government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing education, ICT, and youth empowerment as a catalyst for progress.
