The Plateau State Government has unfolded plans for its citizens to develop digital skills to unlock new career opportunities and drive innovation under a programme to build a digital workforce.
Under the plan, the Plateau State Government, through the Plateau Information Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), has released its November 2024 tech bulletin to guide citizens in acquiring tech skills and build a digitally-empowered workforce in the state.
PICTDA says that this initiative aligns with the agenda of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau agenda to build a digitally empowered workforce in Plateau State.
“The demand for skills such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data analysis is abundant in many countries, attracting large salaries that reflect their importance in the global economy,” according to PICTDA.
The agency emphasised that following the rapid changes in today’s technological landscape, Plateau residents need to develop the right skills to unlock new career opportunities and drive innovation.
“The demand for skills such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data analysis is abundant in many countries, attracting large salaries that reflect their importance in the global economy,” according to PICTDA.
The agency emphasised that following the rapid changes in today’s technological landscape, Plateau residents need to develop the right skills to unlock new career opportunities and drive innovation.
PICTDA: What is inside Plateau State’s plan to build digital workforce?
The bulletin highlights several major digital skills that include:
Cybersecurity: PICTDA noted the growing cyber threats, which has led to organisations seeking cybersecurity experts who will protect information and infrastructure by implementing security protocols, monitoring networks and responding to breaches. The agency revealed that cybersecurity professionals can earn from $80,000 to $250,000 in Germany, India, the UK, and the USA.
Digital Literacy: Described as the ability to navigate the tech landscape by understanding and leveraging digital tools like cloud computing and data management systems, digital literacy is essential for the modern workforce. PICTDA noted that professionals in this field can earn between $40,000 and $100,000 in countries like Australia, Singapore, the UK, and the USA.
Remote work Management: With remote work becoming a norm globally, professionals skilled in virtual team management and productivity software are in high demand. Salaries for these roles, according to PICTDA, can range from $50,000 to $120,000 in Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA.
Network and Systems Administration: This involves maintaining secure and high-performance networks and servers, paying professionals between $ 50,000 and $110,000 in Australia, Canada, and the UAE.
Data Privacy and Ethical Hacking: Specialists in data privacy and ethical hacking help organisations find and fix any form of vulnerabilities to prevent cyber exploitation. According to PICTDA, the demand for these skills is high in countries like India, Israel, the UK and the USA, paying between $70,000 to $140,000.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning experts create algorithms to analyse data, make predictions, and automate processes, enhancing productivity and efficiency in organisations. Professionals earn between $100,000 to $200,000 in India, Japan and the USA.
Coding and programming language: Mastery of programming languages like Python, Java and C++, which is foundational for developing software applications and tech innovations, enables professionals to create anything from websites to complex systems that will enhance the digital economy. These professionals get a take-home of $70,000 to $150,000 in India, Japan and the USA.
Blockchain Technology: Skills in blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralised applications (DApps) are highly sought after, as industries are on the lookout for the secure and transparent transactions these networks offer. Countries like Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, and the USA offer roles in this field with a salary range of $70,000 to $180,000
DevOps and Automation: This field focuses on automating software development processes for faster and more reliable delivery, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $160,000 in Australia, Canada, Germany, and the USA.
Data Analysis: PICTDA noted that data analysts who can interpret complex data and transform them into actionable insights are in demand, with earnings between $60,000 and $120,000 in Australia, Canada, and Singapore.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Development: Expanding into sectors like healthcare and education, demand for AR and VR development skills is high in Japan, South Korea, the UK, and the USA with salaries of $80,000 to $150,000.
Other skills recommended by the PICTDA include mobile app development; cloud computing; adaptability to tech tools and workflows; Internet of Things (IoT); and Design Thinking and Creativity.
The agency emphasised that these skills are essential for the future and to remain competitive in a global workforce. “We encourage individuals to seize these opportunities for growth and empowerment, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation to ensure our communities are well-equipped to thrive in the digital age,” the agency stated.
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