In a significant boost to technological innovation and skill development in Kwara South, the National Productivity Center (NPC) has commended Senator Oyelola Ashiru, Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South, as well as the management of ONEIH-Kola Balogun Technology Center (O-KBTC) and One Innovation Hub Offa (ONEIH), for the successful conclusion of the PCB Design and Fabrication Training held at O-KBTC.
The programme, which took place from September 23 to 28, 2024 at OKBTC, saw the participation of aspiring innovators and tech enthusiasts, marking an important step in positioning Kwara South as a hub for technological advancement.
The commendation was delivered by Mrs. Rabiu-Abodunrin Adebukola, the Deputy Director of NPC, during the closing ceremony of the training.
She praised Senator Ashiru’s vision and continuous support for empowering youths in his constituency through skill acquisition and technological training.
Mrs. Adebukola also lauded the management of ONEIH, led by Engr. Taofeeq Kola Olatinwo, for their dedication to nurturing young talents and fostering innovation.
The training, a collaboration between ONEIH-KBTC and Bagudu Frontier Development Nigeria Limited, was proudly sponsored by the NPC and facilitated by Senator Ashiru.
It was specifically designed to equip participants with hands-on skills in Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design and fabrication, a vital area in electronics and hardware technology. This initiative aligns with Senator Ashiru’s long-standing commitment to promoting technological growth and entrepreneurship in Kwara South, creating opportunities for participants to become drivers of tech startups.
During his address, Engr. Taofeeq Kola Olatinwo, the Chief Executive Officer of ONEIH, expressed profound appreciation to Senator Ashiru, the NPC, and Alhaji Shola Oyewo, Managing Director/CEO of Bagudu Frontier Development Nigeria Limited, for their unwavering support in making the training a reality.
He highlighted the importance of the programme in empowering trainees with entrepreneurial ideation, emphasizing that the management of OKBTC is eager to collaborate with participants who develop innovative ideas and tech-based solutions.
“We are committed to supporting any viable tech startups that emerge from this training. Our goal is to ensure that the knowledge imparted here does not just end in theory but translates into real-world innovations that can contribute to the economy of Kwara South and Nigeria at large”, he said.
The programme also witnessed a session on Troubleshooting delivered by Chief Tajudeen Lanre Shittu, the Otun Akoni of Offaland and Chairman of the Offa Descendants Union (ODU) home branch.
Chief Shittu delved into the practical aspects of troubleshooting electronic circuits, providing participants with essential insights into the systematic process of eliminating faults within PCB systems.
He described troubleshooting as a logical, methodical approach aimed at identifying faulty components by analyzing circuits, testing, and substituting parts to reveal and isolate the problematic areas.
Chief Shittu further explained the importance of having a solid understanding of circuit theory, as well as the ability to interpret instrument readings, error messages, and other diagnostic tools.
These troubleshooting techniques, he noted, are critical for anyone involved in PCB fabrication and repair, as they allow for quick identification and rectification of issues, minimizing downtime in production processes.
Certificates of participation were also given to all participants.
The training programme witnessed the presence of key members of the community, including Alhaji Bisi Oyeleke (ONEIH Board Member), Arc Abdulfatai Olatinwo, and Engr. Abdulfatai Kolawole Yusuf (ONEIH Board Member and the President of Offa Engineers). The trio expressed their satisfaction with the success of the training and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote technological innovation in Offa and its environs.
Alhaji Oyeleke praised the participants for their dedication and hard work throughout the training, while Engr. Yusuf emphasized the need for continued investment in youth capacity building, particularly in fields like technology and engineering.
“It is programmes like this that will shape the future of our society. We need to harness the power of innovation to solve our local challenges, and I’m confident that these participants will go on to do great things.”
He also praised the participants for their resilience and doggedness, and prayed for them.
The completion of the PCB Design and Fabrication Training marks another milestone in Kwara South’s journey towards becoming a center of innovation and productivity.
With the skills acquired during the training, participants are expected to contribute significantly to the development of tech startups, not only in Kwara South but across Nigeria.
The NPC, through its sponsorship, demonstrated its commitment to fostering productivity and economic growth by empowering young talents with skills relevant to the digital age.
Mrs. Adebukola reiterated NPC’s desire to continue supporting initiatives that align with national goals of innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.
As the training concluded, the participants left equipped with knowledge, practical skills, and the backing of influential stakeholders.
The future looks promising for the graduates of the PCB Design and Fabrication Training, who are now poised to drive innovation and economic growth in Kwara South and beyond.
This event demonstrates the significance of collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and educational institutions in driving technological advancements and economic empowerment.
The recognition from NPC reinforces the importance of such initiatives in shaping the future of Nigeria’s productivity landscape.
