Stanbic IBTC Holdings has trained more than 800 young Nigerians in advanced digital skills through its Digital Skills Empowerment Programme, widely known as DiSEP, and has now inducted 250 candidates into the DiSEP 5.0 cohort. The institution disclosed this during the certificate presentation for graduates from DiSEP 4.0 and the formal onboarding of the next group of participants, reaffirming its long-term commitment to youth empowerment and digital inclusion in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, the organisation noted that equipping young people with relevant digital capabilities remains a key driver of economic growth, innovation and job creation. It described DiSEP as a platform that goes beyond technical training by positioning young talents for sustainable careers in an increasingly digital economy. According to the institution, the graduating batch demonstrated resilience and commitment throughout the programme, attributes it believes will reflect in their future professional journey.
Certificates were presented to DiSEP 4.0 participants during the event, with the organisation highlighting the relevance of the acquired skills to employability, digital entrepreneurship and emerging tech opportunities. It stressed that the goal is to enable more Nigerian youths to become productive contributors to national development while building capacity for industries increasingly shaped by technology.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of the DiSEP Alumni Network. The platform is designed to keep past and current participants connected through mentorship, collaboration, professional support and continuous learning opportunities. The institution explained that the network will strengthen community engagement within the programme, ensuring that beneficiaries have access to guidance, industry exposure and career pathways beyond the classroom phase.
With digital skills becoming central to modern business and service delivery, initiatives like DiSEP hold significant value for young entrepreneurs and MSMEs across Africa. Empowering youths with technology competencies prepares more individuals to launch startups, support business processes, and join a workforce that is rapidly evolving. For many micro and small business owners, improved digital literacy can translate into better access to online markets, financial tools, and scalable business models.
The expansion of DiSEP signals sustained investment in talent development and tech adoption at a time the continent is pushing for broader digital transformation. The progress of the upcoming cohort and the role of the Alumni Network will be closely watched, especially by stakeholders seeking scalable examples of private-sector support for youth capacity building.
