FG Successfully Concludes Tech-Learning Initiative in Imo
The Federal Government has successfully concluded its first-ever Build-A-Thon initiative. The initiative, organized by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, took place simultaneously in three major Nigerian cities - Owerri in Imo State, Maiduguri in Borno State, and Abeokuta in Ogun State. This move is towards enhancing digital literacy and skill development among Nigerian youths.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a groundbreaking move towards enhancing digital literacy and skill development among Nigerian youth, the Federal Government has successfully concluded its first-ever Build-A-Thon initiative. The initiative, organized by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, took place simultaneously in three major Nigerian cities - Owerri in Imo State, Maiduguri in Borno State, and Abeokuta in Ogun State.
The Build-A-Thon, held in collaboration with the UK-based NGO Raspberry Pi Foundation and with support from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), aimed to introduce senior secondary school students to embedded systems and maker culture. The four-day event, commencing on January 22, 2024, marked a significant stride in the government's commitment to fostering digital literacy and equipping students with essential skills for the future.
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During the event, 1,500 students were engaged in hands-on learning experiences, acquiring skills in the use of Raspberry Pi, embedded systems, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The program went beyond theoretical knowledge, providing a diverse learning ecosystem with technology labs, DIY boxes, and workshops, offering practical insights into real-world applications.
Dignitaries including Professor John-Cliff Nwadike, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, and Engineer Lawan Abba Wakilbe inaugurated the opening days in Owerri, Maiduguri, and Abeokuta respectively. The commissioners lauded the initiative, expressing commendation for the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, and encouraged the students to apply the skills they acquired.
Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, expressed pride in the initiative's outcome, dubbing it the "largest known Raspberry Pi makerthon." Dr. Tijani emphasized the broader impact, stating, "This Build-A-Thon not only nurtures innovation but also aligns with our commitment to digital education."
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The program showcased innovative prototypes developed by students, including smart homes, speedboats, automated parking lots, and devices designed for the disabled. On Demo Day, schools presented their projects for assessment, with Comprehensive Secondary School in Avu (Owerri), United Comprehensive High School (Abeokuta), and Government Day Secondary School (Maiduguri) winning the 'Best Overall Project' in their respective cities.
The successful completion of the Build-A-Thon aligns with the Federal Government's ongoing Code Clubs initiative, a collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, aiming to empower young minds with computing and digital making skills across 17 locations in Nigeria.
In his closing statement, Dr. Tijani reiterated the government's commitment to investing in the youth, foreseeing a more technologically advanced and innovative Nigeria in the future.
