In a press release from Katsina State Government House dated August 11, 2024, Acting Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe marked International Youth Day 2024, celebrated under the theme "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development."
The Acting Governor emphasized the administration’s commitment to digital empowerment, stating that the state recognizes the crucial role of digital literacy and access in shaping a sustainable future for its young people. He highlighted the establishment of the Katsina Directorate of Information and Communication Technology (KATDICT) as central to institutionalizing digital transformation and fostering innovation among youth.
Jobe underscored alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals through ICT integration into the state development strategy. The state is investing in Digital Public Infrastructure with emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning, described as creating real opportunities for young people to develop skills that are in high demand globally. The SMART Katsina initiative ensures youth become creators and innovators in the digital space.
The Governor referenced the recent Katsina Impact Convergence on ICT and SDGs as demonstrating commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development through collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector. He concluded by calling on stakeholders to support digital initiatives to create a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future for the youth and for Katsina State.