Ecobank Nigeria, an affiliate of the esteemed pan-African banking group, Ecobank Group, joined hands with Opolo Global Innovation Ltd to champion the cause of digital skills development among students from Trinity School, Ojodu, and The Harpers School, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos, in honor of the 10th anniversary of their annual Ecobank Day. Ecobank Day stands as the flagship corporate and social responsibility (CSR) event through which Ecobank and its dedicated employees contribute to their local communities.
This initiative coincided with the launch of a new three-year Ecobank Day campaign spanning Ecobank’s 33 African affiliates. The campaign’s overarching theme is “Transforming Africa Through Education.” In its inaugural year, the campaign has chosen to emphasize digital education, aiming to create opportunities for children and youth to acquire essential digital skills crucial for the future job market. As a significant part of its Ecobank Day endeavors, Ecobank will establish 33 IT laboratories across its African footprint.
Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, expressed, “With Nigeria’s population projected to reach 400 million by 2050, it’s imperative that we equip our youth with the skills they’ll need for the jobs of the future. In an age of rapid technological advancement, digital skills are in high demand by employers. We take great pride in contributing to the digital education narrative in Nigeria, and I extend our gratitude to our partners for making this day a reality for our youth.”
Mrs. Olajumoke Rowaye, Principal of Trinity School, Ojodu, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to Ecobank Nigeria for this generous gesture. The provision of computers and training in artificial intelligence and robotics will have a lasting impact on our children.” Similarly, Sunmisola Nwanze, Head Teacher of The Harpers School, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos, commended the partnership, noting, “This collaboration is truly remarkable. It deepens our connection with the Ecobank brand, and we are appreciative of the digital skills training for our students.”
Since its inception in 2013, Ecobank Day has consistently supported and advanced a variety of vital causes. These have ranged from youth education in Africa (2013), malaria prevention and control (2014), improving the prospects for every African child (2015), to ICT education in schools and maternal health improvement (2016), safe water management (2017), support for orphanages (2018), addressing cancer (2019), diabetes (2020), mental health (2021), and enhancing financial literacy and inclusion (2022).