The Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) (CPN) has reiterated the need for greater professionalism in Nigeria’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector, urging graduating computing students to uphold ethical standards and professional excellence as they prepare to join the workforce.

The Council made the call during graduate induction ceremonies held in July for Computer Science and other computing graduates at McPherson University, Seriki-Sotayo; Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo; and the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State.

According to the Council, the Graduate Induction Programme forms a key part of its strategy to develop a new generation of competent, ethical and professionally certified computing practitioners capable of supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

CPN said the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice by exposing graduating students to the standards and responsibilities expected of computing professionals.

The Council noted that participants received guidance on career development, professional certification pathways, responsible use of technology and the ethical obligations associated with the computing profession.

It also reminded the graduands that membership of the profession comes with the responsibility to deploy technology in ways that promote national development, economic growth, social inclusion and the protection of the public interest.

Management of the three institutions commended the Council for sustaining the Graduate Induction Programme, describing it as an important platform for preparing students for professional practice.

The universities also reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the Council in producing graduates equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the ethical values, professional discipline and practical competencies required in today’s digital economy.

CPN said the successful conduct of the induction ceremonies reflects its commitment to strengthening computing education, promoting professionalism and ensuring that new entrants into the profession embrace excellence, competence, accountability and ethical responsibility.

The Council added that it would continue to partner with higher institutions, government agencies, industry stakeholders and professional bodies to build a globally competitive computing workforce capable of driving innovation, enhancing cybersecurity, supporting economic diversification and positioning Nigeria as a leading digital economy in Africa.