
This study explores the critical issue of digital literacy and skill development among youths in Abia State, Nigeria, utilizing a qualitative research approach. The research investigates the significant barriers that hinder youths from acquiring the advanced digital skills necessary for effective participation in the digital economy. These barriers include limited access to technology, economic constraints, inadequate infrastructure, a lack of awareness and motivation, and prevailing cultural attitudes. The research also examines the current educational framework in Abia State, noting attempts to address digital literacy needs, while identifying gaps such as the limited scope of training, insufficient teacher training, an outdated curriculum, and resource limitations. Community-based training initiatives are assessed for their role in enhancing digital literacy, focusing on their accessibility, practical training opportunities, local relevance, and contributions to collaboration and networking. The study further explores the implications of inadequate digital literacy on employability and community contributions, covering areas such as limited employment opportunities, reduced economic mobility, lower community engagement, the inability to leverage technology for social good, and stagnation in skill development. The findings underscore the imperative for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing digital education initiatives, thereby empowering youths in Abia State to improve their employability prospects and increase their capacity to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader digital economy.
Skill development, Digital Literacy, Youths, Engagement, Community Contributions, Abia State
Skill development, Digital Literacy, Youths, Engagement, Community Contributions, Abia State
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 0 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Average | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Average | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Average |
