The AA Zaura Foundation has launched the first phase of its Digital Entrepreneurship Initiative, aimed at equipping 90 youths across the three senatorial districts of Kano State with practical training in agribusiness and digital entrepreneurship.

The programme, which focuses on digital applications in agro-production, marketing, and value-chain development, is part of a broader effort to address youth unemployment and promote self-reliance. The training is being implemented in partnership with the London Academy Business School and the University of Sunderland.

Speaking to journalists in Kano on Friday, the founder of the AA Zaura Foundation, Abdulkarim Abdulsalam Zaura, explained that the initiative seeks to modernise agribusiness and help youths tap into the growing relevance of digital technologies in agriculture. He noted that the programme was conceived in response to the changing global landscape, particularly the growing role of Artificial Intelligence.

“Since the world is moving towards Artificial Intelligence, Kano as an agrarian and commercial state deserves to leverage on emerging technology to develop the youths in order to be self-reliant,” Zaura said.

Although the foundation initially planned to train 50 youths, more than 750 applied. From this pool, 90 were selected for the first batch and will undergo two weeks of practical training.

“This project is aimed at teaching the beneficiaries digital entrepreneurship in agriculture — how to be productive and how to engage in farming using digital methods,” Zaura explained. “Some are university graduates, others are undergraduates or polytechnic students. The level of interest and participation has been encouraging.”

Dr. Larry Jones, the Chief Executive Officer and lead consultant of the London Academy Business School, highlighted the school’s long-standing experience in agricultural training. He noted the enthusiasm of the participants and the relevance of digital skills in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

“Nigeria has the potential to transform agriculture on the continent,” Dr. Jones said. “What we are bringing as the London Academy Business School is many years of experience. We have come with a message to introduce the digital environment of agriculture to your students, and we have already found them somewhat advanced in this space.”

Mr. Anton Scheepers, the project manager and chief economist, also acknowledged the commitment of the trainees. He echoed Dr. Jones’ remarks, expressing satisfaction with the readiness of the participants to embrace digital tools in agriculture.

The initiative is part of the AA Zaura Foundation’s broader efforts to support youth development through skills acquisition and entrepreneurial training.