Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students’ Engagement, Comrade Sunday Asefon, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its digital education initiatives, saying improved access to technology can help students and graduates develop skills needed to compete in the global economy.
Asefon made the remarks on Wednesday at the Renewed Hope Students’ Leaders’ Engagement and Digital Acceleration Programme for the South-West Zone, held at Ekiti State University in Ado-Ekiti.
The programme, themed “Empowering Students with Digital Skills and Innovation,” focused on expanding students’ access to digital tools and opportunities for developing technology-related skills.
At least 50 students received free laptops at the event to support their information and communication technology (ICT) skills, academic work and innovation efforts.
Digital Education and Economic Opportunities
Asefon said the administration was working to improve digital education and reshape academic structures in ways that could expand economic opportunities for students and graduates.
Access to computers and digital tools can help students participate in online learning, develop technical skills, conduct research and pursue employment opportunities in technology-related fields.
However, the long-term impact of such initiatives also depends on reliable electricity, affordable internet access, relevant training and opportunities for students to apply their skills.
The laptop distribution formed a practical component of the programme, with beneficiaries receiving equipment intended to support their academic and technological development.
Recognition for Student Engagement
Asefon also received Awards of Excellence from different student organisations during the event.
The gathering brought together student leaders and other stakeholders to discuss digital empowerment and opportunities for young people in the South-West.
A similar federal initiative in the North-East earlier in September involved the distribution of 25 laptops to outstanding Computer Science and Computer Engineering students, according to a report published by Tribune Online on September 11, 2026.
The latest programme extends that focus on access to technology and academic support, although the number of beneficiaries and the availability of similar interventions across other regions will determine the programme’s broader reach.
Beyond Laptop Distribution
For digital education initiatives to produce sustained results, access to equipment must be accompanied by effective teaching, practical training and support for students who lack the resources to participate fully in digital learning.
The programme reflects the administration’s stated emphasis on digital skills as part of youth development and economic participation.
The longer-term measure of its impact will be whether beneficiaries can use the resources provided to improve their academic performance, develop employable skills and access further opportunities.