By 
By Nana Theresa Timothy
The Intelligent Capacity Building Model (ICBM) program—a transformative training-to-employment initiative—has officially launched at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) campuses in Abuja and Enugu. Powered by SBTS Group in partnership with DBI, the program aims to train and empower 50,000 Nigerian youths over a 36-month period.
RELATED: SBTS and DBI launch ICBM digital skills programme – Apply now for high-demand tech jobs
ICBM introduces a revolutionary approach to workforce development, transforming the traditional education model by placing participants on a student-employee or student-entrepreneur path from day one.
Bridging the Skills Gap Through Practical Training
The ICBM is designed to build a resilient, future-ready workforce through intensive, hands-on training in digital skills, professional development, and real-world work experiences. The program pilot in Abuja and Enugu is testing the capacity of both training and placement infrastructure.
Core Objectives:
- Establish direct training-to-employment pathways
- Develop market-relevant professional skills
- Foster resilience, self-leadership, and innovation
- Support trainees with structured loan schemes
- Launch regional innovation hubs for wider impact
Target Outcomes:
- 100% job placement within 6 months of completion
- Over 95% loan repayment rate
- 500+ skilled graduates in the first year
- 10+ innovation hub partnerships nationwide
Orientation Begins: A Launchpad for Youth Potential
On launch day, the energy in Abuja and Enugu was electric as participants began their journey into the world of digital technology.
“From this moment, you are either a student-employee preparing for a job or a student-entrepreneur building your own business. Both tracks offer the same strong foundation but open up different exciting futures,” ” said Evelyn Lewis, CEO of SBTS Group, in his welcome address.
Senior Executive Olusegun Oruame reinforced the message in Abuja:
“You are now part of this mission. You’re no longer candidates—you are colleagues.”
Transformative Course Modules and Life Lessons
The onboarding introduced participants to ice breaker course modules including:
- Self-Made Millionaire – Mindset and strategies for financial independence
- Typing Skills – Boosting digital productivity with essential keyboarding skills
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Prompt Engineering – Learning how to interact with AI tools and systems effectively
Motivational coach Delmuah Gogwim delivered an unforgettable session titled “Self-Made Billionaire,” urging participants to believe in themselves, learn from failure, and embrace resilience.
“Because you fail doesn’t mean you stop trying,” she emphasized. “Your attitude defines your success.”
Building Digital Foundations: Typing and AI Awareness
Yakubu Birma, instructor for typing skills, described it as “a core professional asset” in the digital age.
“Speed and accuracy in typing can set you apart in any tech-driven workplace,” he said.
The AI introduction session by Chinaza Obidike offered an eye-opening experience for many first-time learners.
“AI is already shaping industries. Learning how it works empowers you to thrive in a tech-driven economy,” she noted.
Navigating the Digital Platform
Tech Lead Isma’il Muhammad closed the day with a hands-on session in platform navigation—helping participants understand how to access materials, submit assignments, and interact with the digital dashboard.
Participants left the session more confident, digitally empowered, and ready to dive into learning.
The Journey Ahead: A Nationwide Impact
As the final selection and onboarding concluded, organizers reiterated that this is just the beginning. More cohorts will be launched in the coming months across DBI’s campuses nationwide.
ICBM, as implemented by SBTS Group and DBI, is set to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s digital economy, equipping youths with globally relevant skills, promoting tech entrepreneurship, and addressing unemployment.
As one participant summed it up:
“This isn’t just training. It’s a life-changing opportunity.”
