Nigerian-trained Information Technology (IT) specialists in Canada can benefit from this fully-funded technical and soft skills training and internship to integrate into the tech sector in Canada.
The Information & Technology Bridging Programme will be hosting this specialised training initiative designed for IT professionals who have qualified abroad but would like to work in Canada.
The programme is a 16-week technical and soft skills training delivered jointly at Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) and
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) followed by a 10-week internship at leading local IT firms.
Its primary aim is to equip foreign-trained IT specialists with relevant technical expertise, professional competencies, and valuable Canadian work experience to facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce.
The next programme runs from June 23 to December 19, 2025 and is open to current Employment Insurance (EI) recipients, as well as individuals who have received EI benefits within the past five years.
Those interested in applying are encouraged to register for an information session by submitting their CV to the programme facilitator and completing the online intake form.
Job outlook and salary scale
The average salary for an IT specialist in Canada is generally around $71,432 per year. However, this can vary significantly based on experience, location, and the specific IT specialty.
For instance, a junior IT specialist might earn between $43,000 and $69,000 annually, while a senior specialist could earn over $86,000.
The Canadian tech industry faces a high demand of tech professionals causing a persistent talent shortage, with low unemployment rates among skilled IT professionals.
Also, the increasing adoption of AI, machine learning, and cloud computing is driving demand for specialized skills in these areas.
Information sessions
The information sessions are scheduled to take place remotely via Microsoft Teams, and will be held on June 5 and 12.
Each session runs from 1 pm to 3 pm and will offer prospective participants a chance to learn more about the programme’s details and formally submit their applications thereafter.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must be foreign-born and currently residing in Calgary as either permanent residents or Canadian citizens.
They should possess prior education and professional experience in the IT sector acquired outside Canada.
Candidates must also be unemployed or underemployed and demonstrate active efforts in seeking employment.
In addition, they should be current recipients of Employment Insurance or have received EI benefits within the last five years. The programme requires full-time commitment, with the expectation that participants will secure full-time employment in the IT industry upon completion.
Although these criteria serves as guidelines, final eligibility decisions are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Programme structure
The training is conducted in person from Monday to Friday between 8 am and 3 pm.
The first phase includes seven weeks of instruction at SAIT, covering six courses with three micro-credentials, including IT business analysis m, project management essentials, data concepts, introduction to Python program and digital solution.
This is followed by nine weeks of training at CCIS and a concluding 10-week internship at a local IT firm, providing practical exposure to the industry.
This initiative is a crucial stepping stone for foreign-trained IT professionals aiming to build a successful career in Canada, that will offer both industry-relevant training and hands-on experience.
More details can be found here
