By Gabriel Olawale

A computer science graduate of the University of Lagos, Mr. Edoise Areghan, has called on the Nigeria government and private organisations to invest more in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which will ensure the country do not just consume technology but are equipped to create and innovate with it.

Speaking with journalist in Lagos, Areghan said that the investment needs to focus on three critical areas to effectively prepare young generation for the future, “First, infrastructure, such as reliable internet access, computers, and modern learning tools, must be in place so that no student is left behind.

“Second, teacher training is essential, as even the best resources are futile if educators feel unconfident teaching students digital skills. Third, students must be given practical opportunities like coding clubs, mentorship, internships, and competitions to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. By investing in these areas, we can ensure that young people do not just consume technology but are equipped to create and innovate with it.”

Areghan who spent most of his time developing software for the logistics and supply chain industry, said that young children need to be expose to computer languages at early stage around 5-7 years old, “I believe that exposure to coding can begin at a very young age, using visual programming and simple games.

“As they get older, students can learn beginner-friendly languages like Python. I think that early coding exposure is important because it helps to develop problem-solving and logical thinking skills, digital literacy, and empowers children to be creators of technology rather than just consumers. It also allows students to get a head start on future opportunities in a world that revolves around technology in almost every field.”

He hinted that since childhood he has been fascinated by puzzles and games that challenge his logical thinking, “I wanted to understand not only how computers work, but also how software can be used to solve practical problems. Through personal programming projects, online tutorials, and collaborative coding challenges, I’ve honed my technical skills and gained an appreciation for the creativity and perseverance the subject requires.

“Additionally, I’m drawn to the vast potential of technology to transform the world around us. From improving healthcare and communication to driving innovation across industries, the applications of computer science are endless and impactful. Pursuing a degree in computer science will allow me to further develop my analytical and technical abilities while equipping me to make meaningful contributions to the technologies that shape our world and solve real world problems.”

He explained that the motivation behind his support for secondary school students on how to code in python and prepared them for the IGCSE examination in ICT was as a result of his conviction that coding is a life-changing skill that not only opens career opportunities and also helps develop problem-solving and creativity.

“I also wanted to ensure the students realise that Python and ICT were not a boring subject to pass an exam but a means to gain the confidence to create and be innovative with technology. I have observed a great deal in the students which was highly inspiring. A lot of them began feeling that coding is difficult. But as they practised and had someone to support and encourage them, their curiosity to learn and take initiative grew. Some of them went further than the syllabus, creating small works and playing around. It was amazing to see how quickly they moved from a mindset that coding was hard and intimidating to one where they enjoyed it and took ownership of their learning.

“In 2015, one of my students Ayomikun Ayodeji was named the best student in the October/November IGCSE Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Examination in Nigeria which further sparked my interest in raising the leaders of tomorrow in ICT.”

Speaking about his experience while developing software for logistics and supply chain industry, Areghan said that his task was to conceptualize, build and implement logistics and supply chain solutions that enhanced the flow of operations.

“I was tasked with the automation of inventory management, optimization of shipping routes, and incorporation of real-time data analytics, the goal was to provide managers with the insights necessary to make data-driven decisions and drive operational efficiency.”

Areghan who plans to delve into Cybersecurity in the future said that computer science curricula should evolve to better reflect the realities of today’s industry and research landscapes. “This includes a stronger focus on areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, which are already at the forefront.

“However, students also require greater emphasis on ethics and the societal impact of technology, as well as on soft skills like teamwork and real-world coding practices. By strengthening these areas, graduates can be better prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the digital world, instead of focusing only on theory.”