By Nigerian kids have grabbed the tech bug spreading across the as more of them are taking opportunities from private and public institution that are giving training to them on tech issues.
Recently, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), hosted students between the ages of 12 and 16 from various schools across Jigawa State in northern Nigeria at the NITDA STEM Bootcamp for Kids organised by the Agency in collaboration with Future Map Foundation.
The kids demonstrated remarkable dedication and exceptional skills throughout the rigorous training program where they were rewarded with Computers and Tablets as tokens of recognition for their outstanding performance, while Certificates of achievement were bestowed upon 790 beneficiaries, irrespective of their individual performance levels.
Similarly at the STEM Bootcamp for Kids in Abuja, tools were made available to the kids to enable them change narrative and break barriers that hinder them from making progress towards actualising their tech dreams.
At the closing ceremony of the events, the Director General of NITDA, Mr Kashifu Inuwa said, the 10-day Training Programme held simultaneously in Rivers, Jigawa, and the FCT, was to nurture children’s interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines, while exposing them to the endless possibilities that digital technology offers.
“Today, the world is driven by technology, and those who possess the knowledge and skills to harness it will lead the way. Nigeria has an abundance of talent, and by investing in STEM education from an early age, we can unlock our country’s potential and compete on the global stage,” said Inuwa.
“I started as a young enthusiast like you, with a passion for technology. I became a millionaire while doing my mandatory youth service. Today, I have the privilege to lead NITDA, an agency dedicated to shaping the nation’s digital future. The power of technology is in your hands, and I implore you to explore it to the fullest,” he said.
The NITDA boss further stressed the importance of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving, which he deemed essential skills for the future workforce, adding that the STEM Bootcamp offered a range of hands-on activities and workshops. Students had the chance to explore robotics, coding, and virtual reality, sparking their interest in the world of technology.
He said the training will enable the children to be conversant with emerging technologies, enhance creativity, innovation and the intellectual capabilities to be great in proffering solutions to problems, especially now that digital technologies have no barrier in age, gender, and experience.
