The Impact of Computer Institutes in Building Information Technology Skills for State Development: A Case Study of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State

ABSTRACT

This study focused on the impact of computer institutes in building information technology skills for state development in Nigeria with reference to Jos North Local Government Area. The importance of computer institutes and information technology to nation building cannot be over emphasized giving by the fact that no nation can have any meaningful development without accepting the idea of technological advancement. Related literature was reviewed and it was revealed that the problems of information technology in Nigeria can be viewed in two perspectives. One would be the problems associated with its setup, that is, high cost of establishment, while the other would be the problems associated with its existence, which includes the negative perception of the people towards IT, the attitude of the government and the poor educational background of the people. It was further revealed that, currently there is no study that showcases the current state of information technology in Nigeria as it relates to state development. The purpose of this research was to review the current state of information technology in Nigeria and the role, computer institutes play in providing the skills for state development. The study suggested that, government must recognize the importance of technological advancement and make policies towards that if development is paramount. The research was carried out using the survey research method to obtain information from the study area through the respondents and other materials, questionnaire was used and interviews conducted as well.