By Kingsley I. Ilechukwu, Correspondent Lagos

As the capacity training for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) journalists under the aegis of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA) kicks off  today, partner companies have indicated interest to align with the project that promises to infuse more drive into ICT reporting in the country.

Hill+Knowlton Strategies, a marketing communications firm; Global Accelerex, a financial technology company and Zinox Group have pledged their support for the training, which they acknowledge is very critical in the media industry, especially as ICT evolves.

The 5-day Capacity Building Training, which is at the behest of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), with full support from the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, is meant to equip ICT journalists with requisite skills to effectively report the fast-evolving trends in the global ICT field.

According to the Chairman of NITRA, Chike Onwuegbuchi, the training which formed part of his administration’s empowerment promises, would enable NITRA members to further sharpen their skills and be well-equipped to deliver in reporting new technologies such as AI, machine learning, Cloud deployment, Fintech, among others.

NITDA’s intervention is part of the implementation of the Agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2021-2024) which is also in line with application of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS). The policy document promotes the use of digital technology to expand and diversify Nigeria’s economy, especially as it pertains to employing digital literacy and skills strategy.

The training will among other areas cover Digital Literacy, Emerging Technologies, Cybersecurity and journalism as a social engineering tool.