By Dayo Johnson Akure

A Cyber expert and Professor of computer science at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Adebukola Onashoga, has asked youths to take deliberate steps toward becoming adaptive and future-ready ICT talents capable of influencing national development.

Onashoga said this while delivering the Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) 16th Convocation Lecture, titled “Empowering the Gen Zs: Building Adaptive ICT Talents for the Future.”

True University don described Gen Z as a unique demographic digitally connected, curiosity-driven, fearless explorers, and naturally inclined toward experimenting with technology.

She said that “today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape demands young people who are not only tech-savvy but also equipped with the creativity, resilience and problem-solving capacity required to shape Nigeria’s technological progress.

Onashoga said that while these characteristics provide a strong foundation, they must be paired with discipline, skill-building, and intentional development.

“Gen Z must cultivate a growth mindset, one that embraces challenges, seeks knowledge, and constantly adapts to the fast-changing digital landscape. You must go beyond using ICT tools to actually understanding the underlying principles behind them.

Onashoga noted that the future of work and innovation is interdisciplinary, demanding individuals who can bridge gaps across sectors and collaborate with people from diverse fields.

She said “It is not enough to be able to operate technology and to become creators and innovators, you must understand how these tools work.”

“You must see yourselves as bridge builders. Whether you are in agriculture, social sciences, engineering, or the creative sector, technology is now the foundation for growth. Collaboration will define your relevance.”

She however, emphasised that technical knowledge must be supported by problem-solving, critical thinking, and a strong sense of purpose.

“Don’t wait for problems to come to you,” she advised. “Actively look for challenges around you and apply critical thinking to solve them. That is how you stay relevant.”

The cyber security expert urged the youths to deploy creativity in their digital journeys, stressing the importance of innovative digital delivery mechanisms in today’s communication-driven world.

Onashoga who encouraged them to collaborate widely, communicate effectively, and treat learning as a lifelong pursuit, urged them to leverage online training platforms, emphasizing that their mobile phones should be used as tools for learning, not just for chatting or scrolling through unproductive content.

“Use tools for creation, not just consumption, approach every challenge as a builder equipped with the world’s digital toolkit. Learn at least one new tech skill, start a hands-on project, and embrace collaboration.”

While highlighting the importance of digital literacy and responsible online presence, reminding young people that the internet never forgets, she warned them “to be careful how you present yourself online. Your digital footprint can determine opportunities you gain or lose.”

The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Olasebikan Fakolujo, in his remarks, said the choice of lecture was apt and not accidental but a deliberate effort by the institution to steer the younger generation toward purposeful leadership and digital readiness.

Fakolujo said the university carefully selected the theme to spark curiosity in young people, strengthen their interest in leadership roles and equip them with the essential technological skills needed to function effectively in the fast-changing digital world.

The realities of the modern tech age, according to him demand young Nigerians who are innovative, adaptable, and capable of leveraging ICT to solve real-world problems, hence the need to constantly expose them to conversations that prepare them for the future.