Bridging Disparities in Access to 3MTT’s Applied Learning Clusters

As Nigeria embarks on another phase of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme in 2025, the initiative to develop a digitally skilled workforce gains renewed importance. The program’s cornerstone, the Applied Learning Clusters (ALCs), represents a bold strategy to equip Nigerians with critical technical skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. However, our analyst notes that a closer look at the distribution of these clusters reveals gaps that, if unaddressed, risk undermining the initiative’s broader objectives of inclusivity and equality.

Certain allocation issues have arisen, with some participants reporting difficulties in being assigned to ALCs despite being enrolled in the programme. To address disparities in access and quality, the initiative proposes introducing mobile or pop-up clusters to serve underserved areas and strengthening virtual learning components for participants without physical access.

Cohort 3 of the 3MTT programme is set to train 90,000 fellows, leveraging partnerships with numerous ALCs across the country. Dr Bosun Tijani highlighted the significance of implementing local training partners in a recent tweet, acknowledging the challenges of managing diverse partners while praising their commitment and investment.

The Promise of Applied Learning Clusters

The ALCs are designed to provide hands-on, practical training, complementing online learning resources to ensure comprehensive skill acquisition. By creating these physical hubs, the 3MTT program seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry-ready capabilities. The clusters focus on in-demand skills like software development, cybersecurity, UI/UX design, and data analysis, aligning with Nigeria’s vision of becoming a global hub for digital talent.

Exhibit 1: Number of Applied Learning Clusters found on digital platforms amidst lack of a comprehensive list

States like Lagos, Bayelsa, and Enugu boast multiple clusters, offering residents enhanced opportunities for learning and collaboration. Lagos, for instance, houses clusters like the Centre for Research in Enterprise and Action in Management (CREM), Imose, and Teesas Education Learning Centre. This density of resources positions Lagos as a leading hub for digital skill development.  A deeper examination reveals the need to establish at least three ALCs per senatorial district to foster equitable access and inclusivity across all regions.

Uneven Distribution: A Barrier to National Inclusivity

One of the key challenges facing the 3MTT initiative is the uneven distribution of ALCs across Nigeria. While some states host multiple clusters, others rely on a single hub or none at all. This imbalance risks excluding significant portions of the population from participating fully in the program.

For example, in Delta State’s three senatorial districts—Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South—clusters like The Roothub in Delta North and Delta State Innovation Hub in Delta South provide substantial opportunities. However, Delta Central remains underserved, emphasizing the need to establish a cluster to address this gap.

Similarly, in Osun State, clusters like Brain Builders IT Firm and BOOC OAU serve the Central and East Senatorial Districts. However, Osun West lacks equivalent representation, leaving this region at a disadvantage. A comprehensive approach would involve setting up additional ALCs in strategic locations within this district and others throughout the country, with a similar experience to balance access.

Lagos (a major beneficiary of the programme) reflects a strong presence of ALCs across its senatorial districts. Clusters like CREM (Lagos Central), Imose (Lagos East), and Teesas Education Learning Centre (Lagos West) demonstrate how effective distribution can cater to diverse populations.

Implications of Inequality in Access

The unequal distribution of ALCs has far-reaching implications. First, it limits the programme’s ability to achieve its ambitious goal of training 3 million Nigerians in technical skills. Without equitable access, regions with little to no representation in the programme may fall further behind in the digital economy.

Second, the imbalance could exacerbate regional disparities in employment and economic opportunities. States with robust ALC networks will likely see higher levels of digital literacy and employability, while others lag, missing out on the benefits of a digitally skilled workforce. This inequality undermines the perception of the 3MTT programme as a truly national initiative. To inspire confidence and participation across all regions, the programme must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and fairness.

Charting a Path Toward Equitable Access

To address these challenges and ensure the 3MTT program’s success, deliberate actions must be taken to expand and optimize the distribution of ALCs. Establish at least three ALCs in each senatorial district to guarantee baseline access to training opportunities. This move would signal a commitment to inclusivity and ensure no region is left behind.

Prioritise the establishment of ALCs in rural areas and regions currently lacking representation. By focusing on underserved communities, the programme can help bridge the digital divide. Collaborate with private organizations, and development agencies to fund and support the establishment of new clusters. Such partnerships can provide the resources needed to expand the programme’s reach.

Establish robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track the performance and accessibility of ALCs. Regular assessments will help identify gaps and inform corrective actions.

The Road Ahead

The stakes are high. A digitally skilled workforce is not just an economic imperative but a tool for social empowerment and national development. By addressing the current gaps in the ALC model, the 3MTT programme can fulfil its promise of transforming Nigeria into a global hub for technical talent, a vision that includes every region, every community, and every citizen. In 2025, the success of the 3MTT programme will not be measured solely by the number of participants trained but by the inclusivity and equity of its reach. This is the challenge and the opportunity that lies ahead.