By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – Tech clubs have been inaugurated in 20 secondary schools in the nation’s capital, Abuja, to promote digital skills and innovation among young people.

The launch took place during an event marking the International Day of the African Child, which also featured an intergenerational dialogue on national development and a national debate championship final.

The tech clubs aim to provide students with access to technology and spark their interest in fields like robotics and AI.

Benjamin Ogbaji, Programme Officer of Africado Foundation, initiators of the clubs, emphasized the importance of digital skills for a sustainable future and called for greater collaboration to address the issue of out-of-school children.

“We urge the government to collaborate with us as we reach out to communities with a high number of out-of-school children to provide them with educational skills and technological knowledge for the future. We are advocating for the implementation of more policies aimed at addressing the issue of out-of-school children.

“Every child should have access to technology, as digital skills are essential for ensuring a sustainable future. This is why we are establishing tech clubs in 20 schools to spark students’ interest in technology and prepare them for their future,” he said.

The event also highlighted the need for young people’s involvement in decision-making processes, with speakers stressing the importance of inclusion and skills development.

Dr. Wale Adekanye, Special Adviser to the Senate President on Health, urged Nigeria’s education system to prioritize skills training and innovation to prepare young people for the future.

The launch of the tech clubs is a significant step towards empowering young people in Nigeria with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

By providing access to technology and promoting innovation, the clubs will help to bridge the gap between education and employment, and preparing the next generation for success