Youths Trained, Empowered as i-FATOSS University, Fontis Aid Foundation Hold Tech Symposium in Awka

Over 100 youths in Anambra State benefitted from a one-day symposium on technology and career advancement, organized by i-FATOSS University, Benin Republic (Institut Des Formation Avancées) in collaboration with Fontis Aid Foundation. The event, themed “Leveraging Technology for Career Advancement,” was held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

In his opening remark, the chairman of the occasion, Dr. Churchill Okonkwo, described technology as indispensable to Nigeria’s growth. He called on government, institutions, and individuals to deepen investments in digital knowledge, while challenging students to embrace innovation as a tool for advancement.

The Registrar of i-FATOSS University, Dr. Eze Joshua Chidiebere, commended the theme as timely, adding that the ability to adapt and innovate with technology is now a passport to global opportunities.

The Founder of Fontis Aid Foundation, Prof. Chioma Ikeanyionwu, said the mission of her organization is to build skills and create opportunities for the disadvantaged. She stressed that technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity, urging participants to bridge digital divides and use innovation to foster self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

Presentations at the symposium focused on practical digital skills. Hon. Victory Ekwunife explained the meaning of career, stressing the need to apply technology in chosen fields. She highlighted branding, content creation, and professionalism as key career-building tools, and defined digital skills as the ability to use technology to solve problems. On his part, Mr. Emmanuel Chukwu emphasized the importance of professional networking, listing its advantages such as access to job opportunities, knowledge exchange, personal growth, problem-solving, and innovation. He further noted that digital platforms enhance visibility and reputation, mentioning social media channels that youths can leverage to expand their professional networks.

The event also witnessed awards of honorary doctorate degrees to Amb. Lilian Nwankwo, Mr. Izunwanne Uchenna, Amb. Ifeyinwa Nkamigbo, and Chief Chukwugozie Nzekwesi. Men of Impact awards were given to Dr. Churchill Okonkwo and Bishop Dr. Onyeka Nzekwesi, while the Acting Rector of Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu, Dr. Njideka Chiekezie, received the Woman of Impact award. The awardees pledged to remain good ambassadors of their institutions and communities.

In addition, Fontis Aid Foundation extended financial empowerment to four young entrepreneurs: Chinecherem Maduanusi, Chidinma Akachukwu, and Hon. Daniel Agbo, all fashion designers, as well as Comrade Umunna Uchenna, a shoe designer, to support their small businesses.

The event blended knowledge-sharing, recognition, and empowerment, leaving participants inspired to leverage technology for career advancement and community impact.