The Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has launched the Digital Literacy for Ikorodu Trade (DLIT) programme to empower artisans and traders in its host communities with essential digital skills.
The initiative, which is part of the university’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, targets the communities of Lambo Lasunwon, Araromi, and Okegbegun in Ikorodu Local Government. A total of 20 participants were selected after a rigorous screening process.
The four-week programme, which began on 11 April 2026 and will end on 2 May 2026, is being held at the NITDA Digital Learning Centre, facilitated by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the Ikorodu Campus of LASUSTECH.
The training provides hands-on sessions in brand building, digital marketing, search engine optimisation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) usage, and basic graphics design. The goal is to help traders and artisans build a strong digital presence and improve their business performance in today’s competitive environment.
In his keynote address titled, “Fulfilling the Mandate of Community Service through Digital Entrepreneurship”, Vice Chancellor Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya congratulated the participants and described the programme as timely.
He emphasised that the digital era has made traditional analogue business methods insufficient, making digital literacy crucial for survival and growth.
The LASUSTECH Vice Chancellor, highlighted how business communication has evolved from oral methods to digital tools, citing cryptocurrencies and online transactions as examples.
Prof. Odusanya explained that digital literacy involves the effective use of computers and phones to communicate, create content, store information, and reach wider audiences. He noted that manual business methods are limited compared to digital approaches, which enable faster transactions, greater accuracy, and broader market access.
The Vice Chancellor stated that the DLIT programme aims to reduce poverty and unemployment while fostering community development through enhanced business efficiency.
The programme aligns with LASUSTECH’s IMPACT vision, particularly the Town and Gown relationship, bringing university expertise directly to the host community. Prof. Odusanya thanked the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for donating the Digital Learning Centre, which was commissioned in 2025 and is now being utilised for this training.
He also appreciated the team lead, Dr. Steven Anu’ Adesemoye, and the lead trainer, Dr. Stephen Aderibigbe, for their dedication.
The Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Ademola Aderogba, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and to mutually beneficial relationships with host communities.
In his remarks, the lead trainer, Dr. Stephen Aderibigbe, announced that the programme would include follow-up support for outstanding participants beyond the four-week period.
He stressed that universities exist to educate, conduct research, and serve communities through CSR initiatives such as DLIT.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Abigail Omotolani expressed gratitude for the opportunity. She described the programme as timely and relevant in improving her small-scale business by strengthening its digital presence. She promised to make the most of the training to scale up her trade.
