University students in Nigeria can now earn income from digital skills while still on campus, following the launch of a student focused freelance platform at Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja, in Gwagwalada.

The initiative, driven by Skola Konnect as part of its Future Forward Campus Tour, introduces a dedicated online marketplace called Scholar Gigs, which allows undergraduates to offer services such as graphic design, video editing, and social media management to clients within and outside Nigeria.

Cofounder of Skola Konnect, Obehi Ogbeide, who addressed students at the event on Thursday, said the platform was built to close the gap between academic training and professional readiness.

"Scholar Connect is a digital platform where university students can earn money, build their portfolio, and grow their experience while still in school. They don't have to wait until they graduate to start earning or building experience," Ogbeide stated.

She noted that the platform also positions students to graduate with verifiable professional records they can present to employers and clients.

"This will help students earn money, support themselves in school, and reduce financial burden at home. It also helps them build experience and professional etiquette through real client interaction," Ogbeide added.

The Yakubu Gowon University activation follows an earlier launch at Baze University, with the co founder confirming that more campus rollouts are planned across Nigeria.

David Chinedum Paul, representative of technical partner Sapphital Limited, described the platform as a youth empowerment tool comparable to global freelance marketplaces.

"Basically, this is about empowering the youth. We have created a platform similar to Fiverr, where students can offer services like flyer design, video production, and other digital tasks," Paul disclosed.

He explained that the model is straightforward: clients post job requests, and registered students apply and deliver the required services. Sapphital's representative also urged students to continuously develop their digital skills, noting that the global economy increasingly rewards those who can adapt and deliver value online.

The platform does not train students but connects those who already possess skills with paying clients, making it accessible to undergraduates across disciplines who are ready to monetise what they already know.