From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Over 70 young people in Kwara State, have received training in digital media and drone piloting to equip them with practical skills for employment and self-reliance.
The training, organised by 132 Media Academy at the Kwara State Library, Ilorin, focused on digital content creation, camera operation, sound engineering, lighting composition, drone piloting and video editing.
Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, Comrade Abdulateef Ahmed, who spoke on the theme “How to Use the Media Responsibly,” urged the beneficiaries to apply their new skills with caution. He warned that while digital tools create opportunities, careless use could harm society and endanger national interest.
“Use these skills to correct the wrongs of unprofessional media users and ensure that what you put out contributes positively to our society,” he said.
The General Manager of Kwara State Broadcasting Corporation, Radio Kwara, Mr. Kayode Aremu, represented by Alhaji Sikiru Azeez, noted that the initiative could reduce youth restiveness by creating opportunities for employment. He encouraged participants to take the training seriously and use it to develop themselves.
Also speaking, Mr. Oludele Ayobami said the knowledge gained would help the trainees “light up their world and make meaningful impact.” He, however, cautioned them to be mindful of the kind of content they put out, stressing that reputation is key in digital engagement.
Earlier, Chief Executive Officer of 132 Media Academy, Mr. Tijani Ajara, explained that the programme was aimed at empowering youths and giving back to the society.
He revealed that over 500 young people had been trained free of charge both within and outside Kwara State, adding that the academy intends to sustain the initiative annually.
Ajara further advised participants to channel their skills towards promoting peace and development, stressing that the global digital economy holds about $20 trillion in opportunities waiting to be tapped by creative minds.