By Participants at the just ended IgniteHer Bootcamp, a flagship initiative by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have expressed how important digital skills can be in the growth of a startup business and seeking for more of such learning opportunities.
Reacting in several comments at the end of the two days event, which was specifically designed to foster digital literacy, market opportunities, and the use of technology, they expressed excitement about the training and how much it would impact their life and businesses.
According to one of them, Hadiza Isah Mohammed, she was at the point of dropping her dreams because everything seems not to be working, “but I’ve been ignited and ready to continue my journey.”
For Eseohe Okhue, the bootcamp exposed to her how to leverage artificial Intelligence for business growth as well as importance of digital marketing for business growth and the use business model of Canva.
Another participant, Liz Ogah stating that learning is a continuous process and should not be stopped disclosed that “We’ve been enlightened to take full charge of our businesses by being involved in every aspect and being conscious of doing business the right way.”
But for Rume Oshenye the bootcamp learning is leapfrogging her into considering taking courses on SEO and SEM marketing to help with her website adding that “the sessions gave me confidence and the ability to look into doing these things myself.
“Learnings from the business plan and business model canvas – allowed me to revamp my business plan and incorporate smart goals for the months ahead, which I will definitely be implementing in my business. It will allow me to run my business in a structured way.”
In the words of Maimunat Ibrahim, the bootcamp reinforced that learning is a lifelong journey, and skills can be acquired regardless of one’s field of study.
According to her, the focus on gender inclusivity and empowerment strategies was inspiring and motivating, saying “this was the best bootcamp I’ve attended, offering valuable insights and practical skills. The knowledge gained will be instrumental in developing our startup business.”
And for Imaobong Edukere: “The IgniteHer Bootcamp has been an incredibly transformative experience for me. It’s my first time being in a strong network of like-minded women entrepreneurs and drinking from their knowledge… I now feel more prepared to implement what I’ve learned and make a lasting impact in society.”
Speaking on behalf of NITDA’s Director General, the Special Adviser on Strategic Partnerships, Mrs. Iklima Musa, emphasized the critical role of women in driving economic growth and national development.
She also highlighted how the Bootcamp will address digital literacy gaps and provide women with the necessary tools to expand and scale their businesses.
The event provided opportunity to network and partner with Japanese companies while the participants were provided a link to apply their learnings and submit a pitch deck or business plan on their respective and prospective companies.
