TechPression

Category: Innovation

  • Teens World Foundation launches SkillXplore cohort to empower young innovators

    Teens World Foundation launches SkillXplore cohort to empower young innovators

    Teens World Foundation (TWF) launched its first-ever SkillXplore Program in Lagos, welcoming 25 teenagers from underserved communities. The program offers the teens full scholarships to develop key tech skills through hands-on training. 

    The program which commenced on Sunday, October 6, 2024,  marks a significant step toward addressing the skills gap in Nigeria by providing education that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in quality education, economic growth and innovation.

    Read also: Teen Tech Expo inspires youths to create innovative digitised solutions

    Setting the stage for transformation through tech skills

    The event opened with a speech by Kossy Okonkwo, founder of TWF, who encouraged the teens to redefine their futures by gaining skills that will not only improve their personal prospects but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader technological advancement. Okonkwo emphasised TWF’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities, ensuring that background and privilege do not limit a teenager’s potential to succeed.

    Igniting creativity in young innovators through innovation

    Farhan Sodiq, a senior software developer, delivered the keynote speech, inspiring the teenagers to think beyond their current circumstances and embrace tech as a tool for innovation. He urged participants to see themselves as the drivers of Nigeria’s future, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunities presented through SkillXplore. 

    Following the speech, an interactive ice breaker session allowed the teens to pitch innovative solutions, ranging from VR-based cultural experiences to robotics-driven festival enhancements. These projects demonstrated the creative potential of the participants, setting a positive tone for the rest of the program.

    The SkillXplore curriculum offers a wide range of tech-focused courses such as Software Development, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Robotics, and Product Management. During the event, representatives from partner organisations like Pluralcode Academy and Unified Scientific and Creative Operations (USCO) gave participants an overview of the program’s practical approach. The teens will apply their learning in real-world scenarios, guided by mentors who will support their development throughout the training.

    To ensure participants have access to the necessary resources, each received a laptop donated by Aptech Computer Education. This contribution highlights the importance of partnerships in making the program successful. TWF expressed gratitude to its training partners, emphasising that the collective support of various organisations plays a pivotal role in empowering the teens.

    Read also: Teens World Foundation to host Teen Tech Expo on May 28

    What’s next for SkillXplore?

    The first cohort of the SkillXplore program will undergo a year-long training, culminating in a graduation ceremony where they will present tech projects developed during the course. TWF aims to expand the program beyond tech skills, incorporating additional tracks like fashion, catering, and photography to provide teens with more diverse career options. As applications for the next cohort open soon, the foundation continues its mission to provide equal opportunities for young Nigerians.

    TWF invites individuals and organisations to support and partner with them in creating lasting change for the youth of Nigeria. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to equip these teenagers with the skills and confidence to become innovators and leaders in their communities.

  • Nigeria teams up with USAID to enhance tech innovation

    Nigeria teams up with USAID to enhance tech innovation

    The Federal Government of Nigeria and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) have teamed up to promote technological innovation and sustainable development projects in the nation.

    Dr. Felix Ale, the National Space Research and Development Agency’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, revealed this in a statement on Wednesday.

    The statement claims that this partnership was strengthened when Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, and USAID’s Chief Innovation Officer, Mohammed Abdel-Kader, met during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, USA.

    Read also: Nigeria poised to introduce $1.5 million AI assistance fund

    According to the statement, their conversations centred on using technology to solve urgent issues related to Nigeria’s growth.

    Nnaji stated that the meeting emphasised the importance of forming creative alliances, particularly in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital financial inclusion.

    “These partnerships are essential for strengthening Nigeria’s developing tech ecosystem as well as for enhancing the lives of marginalised communities,” he stated.

    Partnership on tech to boost agricultural development 

    The minister underlined how technology has the power to develop meaningful solutions that can improve the lives of underprivileged groups and advance the country’s general economic development.

    He claimed that one of the main topics of conversation was how AI might improve Nigerian farming methods.

    He continued by saying that all sides recognised the importance of technological advancements that may enhance farming practices, with food security a major priority.

    “Our goal is to meet the growing food demands of our country and support smallholder farmers while ensuring sustainable practices by utilising cutting-edge technologies,” he said.

    According to Nnaji, the emphasis on agriculture is part of a larger plan to boost resilience and productivity in the face of climate change, which poses severe risks to the world’s food supply.

    Read also: Why all tech innovators must attend the Ghana Digital Innovation Week 2024

    Partnership on tech to boost energy 

    Another critical focus that came up frequently in the dialogue was energy access.

    Nnaji also mentioned how the deployment of off-grid and renewable energy technology is essential to achieving Nigeria’s energy targets.

    He noted that the potential for cooperation under USAID’s Power Africa initiative, which aims to increase access to power through greener, sustainable solutions, was discussed.

    “To guarantee a dependable power supply for our communities, we must investigate distributed renewable energy technologies and incorporate AI into grid management,” he stated.

    The minister added that the meeting was significant beyond the talks because Nigeria and USAID decided to formally establish a collaboration to identify and develop cutting-edge technology.

    He continued by saying that the partnership intends to start collaborative research and pilot programs in essential fields like healthcare and education, where artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have the potential to alter these industries significantly.

    “Our partnership with USAID will play a pivotal role in propelling the inventive solutions required to fulfil our national development objectives and enhance the standard of living for our populace,” stated Nanki.

  • Why all tech innovators must attend the Ghana Digital Innovation Week 2024

    Why all tech innovators must attend the Ghana Digital Innovation Week 2024

    The Ghana Digital Innovation Week (GDIW) programme started on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre and is scheduled for three days. 

    It is organised by a consortium led by the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program (NEIP), Ghana Hubs Network (GHN), and Impact Investing Ghana (IIGh). 

    The GDIW’s partners are GIZ, the German Government, MASHAV, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), the Ministry of Communication and Digitalization (MoCD), and many more.

    Read also: Africacomicade Gamathon 2024: Spotlighting Africa’s game changers

    The event will see a gathering of all tech enthusiasts and major stakeholders in the industry, where conversations will be held about Ghana’s digital transformation journey and progression. 

    The GDIW roadshow

    GDIW 2024 hosted six regional programs dubbed ‘The road to GDIW’ in Tamale, Wa, Kumasi, Techiman, Koforidua, and Takoradi, all in the Northern, Upper West, Ashanti, Bono East, Eastern, and Western regions ahead of the significant event to be held in Accra.

    The regional event aims to start a dialogue, exchange best practices, and ensure collaborative action among diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, academia, private sector entities, Traditional Authorities, and community representatives.

    Are you a tech innovator? 

    More than ever before, Ghana and the world need brilliant minds who will create and apply new and improved technologies, systems, tools, and processes that will advance several fields. 

    Tech innovators recognise the fast-paced nature of today’s business environment and are always looking for ways to stay ahead of the game.

    How Ghana’s Digital Innovators will be celebrated at GDIW 2024

    The amazing stories of Ghana’s digital innovators will be projected at the Ghana Digital Innovation Week.

    The theme, “Innovate Together: Collaborating for Digital Transformation and Impact,” will also bring together businesses, innovators, and individuals to collaborate and showcase their ideas.

    Read also: Ibadan Tech Expo 2024 to fuel Nigeria’s digital growth

    Structure of the GDIW event 

    The event will have exhibitions, panel discussions, and sessions on the newest trends in digital innovation.

    Participants will also be allowed to learn and network.

    More than 6,000 attendees are expected to participate in this year’s event, an increase from previous years. 

    Outcome of the GDIW 2024 

    The GDIW this year hopes to establish a unified national vision for the country’s digital agenda, celebrate the accomplishments of Ghana’s digital innovators, mobilise diverse stakeholders for inclusive ecosystem development, and inspire Ghanaians to take the lead in driving innovation and digital transformation.

  • Africacomicade Gamathon 2024: Spotlighting Africa’s game changers

    Africacomicade Gamathon 2024: Spotlighting Africa’s game changers

    The Africacomicade Gamathon 2024, Africa’s foremost convention for video games and immersive media, launched on September 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria, with a powerful message: “Thrive. This year’s theme captures the conversation about innovation, sustainability and the pressure to recreate Africa’s digital creative space.

    This annual event has remained the platform where creative minds in technology and development interface with potential employers in the growing tech industry across the African continent.

    Read also: Africacomicade to host Gamathon 2024 in Lagos, offering funding opportunities

    A celebration of the African Digital creative industry

    The event that preceded the independent showcase was set up as an industry showcase, and those from Africa presented the latest industry offerings, from VR / AR projects to indie games and other technological novelties. The participants can contact other professionals, possible investors, and game lovers. This dynamic interaction predetermined the overall experience within the framework of the five-day event, attracting more than 2,000 distinct users by the event’s end.

    Among the event’s stepping stones are the Panel Sessions and Workshops that present the hot topics of the gaming and interactive media industries. Discussions on the first day included issues such as the effects of Blockchain on gaming and the prospects of eSports in Africa, among others. Such presentations are informative events organised to become platforms where attendees and heads of the corresponding industries can create mutual connections necessary for work and collaboration.

    Pitch competitions and game jams: fueling innovation

    Game developers found the Pitch Competition unique, as seen from its high number. It gave them the precious chance to unveil their revolutionary concepts to potential financiers in the industry. The competition is so intense because grants for creating a prototype are involved, turning ideas into actual concepts. The competition becomes invaluable to aspiring developers, amplifying Africa’s capability to foster gambling and grow it into a robust industry internationally.

    At the same time, the Game Jam offered the participants the opportunity to unite and generate new game ideas. Global teams and talents had to work under these pressures to develop creative, innovative gaming solutions that closely correlate with African culture and stories due to the importance of narrating African content in global media.

    Cultural experience: Showing selected movies and organising physical exhibitions

    Apart from gaming, Africacomicade 2024 also incorporated the cultural part of interactive media by screening a film based on gaming-related stories. This further supports how Digital storytelling connects to other demographical and cultural representations and how immersive media breaks barriers and enhances the representation of African narratives in an engaging media application.

    Read also: IYD 2024: SMILE’s youth leadership summit sparks new mindset for African innovation

    Moreover, the embodied exhibit interacted with new technologies and products through a multi-sensory and tactile quality. It evolved into a place where the community could study new tools in game creation, aesthetics, and virtual reality.

    Oscar Michael, CEO and founder of Africacomicade, described the future challenges and opportunities in African digital content creation. “In the first Gamathon held in 2020, we witnessed a massive leap in participation and skills. But there is still a long way to go to achieve stability and broad awareness of the funding availability of this niche and the opportunities there,” he added.

    Since the Gamathon awarded over $30,000 in grants last year, Oscar and his associates ensure that everyone interested in increasing Africa’s creative impact on the international stage gets the tools and information they need.

    As it offers African talents a $100,000 funding round to help grow the African gaming and interactive media industries, Africacom is the perfect example of this shift. The Africacomicade Gamathon will remain the pinnacle event as the event will go on till October 5, 2024. From this, it is apparent that the future of African tech is full of colour and has massive potential for future development when a space that encourages collaboration and innovation is created. Africa’s digital creatives are not just participating; they are thriving.

  • Airtel Africa to empower African data scientists and artificial intelligence experts with a $500,000 initiative

    Airtel Africa to empower African data scientists and artificial intelligence experts with a $500,000 initiative

    The Airtel Africa Foundation hopes to empower the next generation of data science and artificial intelligence specialists throughout the continent by launching a fellowship program for IIT Madras Zanzibar undergraduate students.

    The organisation said in a statement on Sunday that ten worthy students from various socioeconomic backgrounds will receive full scholarships as part of the $500,000 initiative. The scholarships will pay for their living expenses and tuition for the entire four years of the program.

    According to the charity, the scholarship is the first effort to improve educational chances for deserving students enrolled at IIT M Zanzibar, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

    Read also: Airtel SmartCash improves payment with new card

    Students from 14 African countries will benefit from the $500,000 initiative 

    It stated that students from 14 African nations—Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger, Chad, Congo B, Gabon, Madagascar, and Seychelles—were to be assisted by the program.

    The people who get this fellowship will be referred to as “Airtel Africa Fellows.” They will get $12,000, which is 100% of their education expenses, based on the institute’s 4-year program’s course cost schedule.

    Furthermore, all qualified students will get $500 to help with living expenses.

    According to the company, the goal of this program is to “transform, shape, and nurture future leaders who will contribute to technological innovation and economic growth in Africa.”

    Read also: Uganda’s UTel receives a $225 million boost from a Dubai-based investor

    Airtel Africa Foundation’s chairman commends the initiative 

    Dr. Olusegun Ogunsanya, the chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, stated: “We are happy to collaborate with IIT Madras Zanzibar to give young Africans access to high-quality education.”

    This project aims to help build a wealthy and sustainable continent. We are eager to expand opportunities in education, financial inclusion, digital inclusion, and environmental preservation.

    Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training comment 

    “IITM Zanzibar is charting a wonderful path in technical education in the region,” stated Ms Lela Mussa, Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training.

    “Our top goal is to financially support students from Tanzania and the rest of the continent who are acing the IITM Zanzibar screening and test procedures so they can have access to this excellent education”

  • Lagos Innovates begins 10th Idea Hub mentorship program, onboards 23 innovators

    Lagos Innovates begins 10th Idea Hub mentorship program, onboards 23 innovators

    Lagos Innovates has onboarded 23 innovators to commence the 10th edition of its Idea Hub program. The 8-week incubation program began with the orientation ceremony held on Thursday, 19th September, at Yaba, Lagos. These startups were chosen from a pool of 103 applicants.

    During the hybrid event, some mentors shared insights with the participants to prepare them for the upcoming sessions.

    The program will comprise physical and virtual sessions for more inclusive participation and networking and foster collaborations that can birth more transformative, sustainable, and innovative solutions in Lagos state and the world.

    Read also: Lagos Innovates launches incubation boot camp, onboarding 23 innovators

    With relevant skills, networking opportunities, mentorship, and expert masterclass sessions from seasoned industry experts, its 8-week Idea Hub Program supports early-stage tech-enabled ventures to develop a minimum viable product to create a competitive and long-lasting brand.

    Lagos Innovates is an initiative of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) that offers a collection of programs designed to support technology—and innovation-driven startups in Lagos State.

    It provides a selection of tech-focused programs designed for individuals and entrepreneurs who want to use technology to benefit society. The LSETF has taken a bold and deliberate step to foster innovation, fortify the talent and finance pipeline for tech startups, and facilitate the development of Lagos State’s ecosystem.

    What to anticipate at the Lagos Innovates Idea Hub program

    The program seeks to facilitate the expansion and prosperity of the ecosystem by giving tech enthusiasts, creators, and businesses the resources and assistance they require to succeed. Lagos Innovates aims to establish Lagos as a critical startup location and represents the community’s overall objective.

    The Idea Hub program, which runs from September 19 to November 6, 2024, will include eight masterclasses where participants will learn about various subjects.

    There will be mentorship sessions where participants can meet with their assigned mentors for one hour each week. The sessions will also include a “journey series” where participants can have private meetings with well-known founders to gain insight into their entrepreneurial journeys and a pre-pitch session to identify the top five to ten startups that will pitch on Pitch Day.

    Alumni testimonials

    Participants of previous cohorts shared their experiences during the orientation, highlighting its impact on their businesses.

    “I have had an excellent time learning from top industry experts’ knowledge and wealth of experience. The classes were interactive and well-organised. I look forward to growing my business and being an exemplary entrepreneur to aspiring entrepreneurs”, said Michael Sunmoni, founder of Health Impulse Technologies.

    Read also: Apply for Lagos Innovates free Workspace Voucher to boost your tech startup journey

    Another beneficiary, Isioma Abojei-Onuoma, founder of Accel Skills Hub, said, “The Idea Hub sessions were very insightful and educational. Due to these sessions, I returned to the drawing board, reevaluating and restructuring my goals and business model to ensure effective and efficient business optimisation.”

    “The masterclasses were wonderful and insightful. I was also paired with a good mentor with whom I had a good session. I had deliverables set by him for me, and I always couldn’t wait for further brainstorming calls with him. My experience is fantastic.” affirmed Eniola Oladipo, Pitcherd People.

    Since 2018, Lagos Innovates has helped 215 businesses, and those startups have successfully raised funds both domestically and internationally.

  • Nigeria’s initiative to bridge digital gap Kickstart in 12 states

    Nigeria’s initiative to bridge digital gap Kickstart in 12 states

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has launched a ground-breaking Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) Initiative in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s priority of accelerating diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation.

    The initiative has kicked off in twelve states: the Federal Capital Territory, Kebbi, Jigawa, Yobe, Gombe, Kwara, Ekiti, Osun, Cross River, Bayelsa, Abia, and Ebonyi states.

    Read also: Nigeria’s National AI Strategy: Driving economic growth, ethical standards, and innovation

    Goal to achieve 70% digital literacy

    With the help of this project, the Agency hopes to equip every Nigerian citizen with the fundamental digital skills needed to succeed in today’s technologically advanced world and to attain 70% digital literacy for all Nigerians by 2027.

    The initiative will allow citizens to take advantage of possibilities, support the advancement of their country, and ensure a better future.

    Strategic cooperation with the NYSC is a crucial element of DL4ALL, as it seeks to utilise corps members’ nationwide enthusiasm and reach. These recent graduates, who will spend their service years serving as Champions in different parts of Nigeria, will train and raise awareness of digital skills in the communities they work with.

    Importance of Corp members to bridge the digital gap 

    The program will begin national sensitisation and skill-building using the NYSC structure currently in place. Corps members will play a crucial role in providing digital literacy training to guarantee that the program reaches every part of the nation.

    This distributed method guarantees that the benefits of digital literacy and its message are received even in the most remote locations.

    Camp sensitisation talks are being held in these states to inform local communities and corps members about the objectives of the Digital Literacy for All Initiatives.

    Through these initiatives, it is hoped that the information shared during the sensitisation camps will have a cascading effect on nearby communities and beyond.

    Read also: International Telecommunications Union implores Nigeria to define NCC, NITDA’s roles

    About NITDA

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) was established in April 2001 to coordinate national IT development and carry out the Nigerian Information Technology Policy.

    Under the National Information Technology Development Act of 2007, a framework for the planning, development, implementation, standardisation, coordination, monitoring, assessment, and control of information technology practices, activities, and systems in Nigeria must be established.

    Cultivating talent and promoting digital literacy are at the core of its strategic initiatives. Other areas of focus include strengthening the legal and policy environment and policy implementation capacities, fostering an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem, creating strategic alliances and cooperative efforts, encouraging a dynamic organisational culture and nimble workforce within NITDA, advancing equitable access to digital infrastructure and services, and boosting cybersecurity and digital trust.

  • Digital innovation helps Uganda’s tax department meet income goals

    Digital innovation helps Uganda’s tax department meet income goals

    The application of these latest digital technologies has made it achieve and even exceed the set revenue goals by Uganda’s Tax Authority.

    This is an outstanding achievement registered by the Uganda Tax Authority (URA), which has just managed to realise a collection of approximately Shs 2. And this forced European countries to pay one trillion more in taxes than they had initially planned.

    The achievement, which is believed to be the result of the flexibility of digital innovation in managing taxes, presents hope for Uganda’s economy in the future.

    Read also: Uganda’s UTel receives a $225 million boost from a Dubai-based investor

    Digital transformation drives record tax collection

    Today, the Uganda Revenue Agency (URA) is steadfastly focused on tax modernisation and enhancing service quality within the framework of the Digital Transformation of Taxation Services program.

    With the support of the UNDP, the URA is dedicated to producing value-added services that significantly benefit taxpayers.

    These solutions are designed to bolster public trust in the tax system, streamline the submission process, and, most importantly, enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the system, providing reassurance for the future of tax collection in Uganda.

    Read also: Binance launches mobile money crypto trading in Ghana, Zambia, Tanzania and Uganda

    The continuing revolution in computerisation has helped to increase record tax 

    The Commissioner General of the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), John Musinguzi, stressed the need to explore the use of technology in combating tax compliance issues and improving openness.

    To manage its administration now and in the future more extensively and effectively, URA has integrated technology to allow personnel to offer practical and transparent services, besides putting a state-of-the-art data centre in place.

    This has been made possible by technological advancements such as the Electronic Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) and a USSD channel for accessing taxpayer services through their mobiles.

    Technological change has significantly influenced the revenue collection system’s radical change. In turn, the URA has improved its operational effectiveness and strengthened its links with funders by focusing on technology.

    There is no need for taxpayers to physically be at the service centres, which is even better due to mobile-based services and a dedicated contact line. Therefore, the convenience of the taxpayers is directly served as a consequence of increased compliance rates.

  • University of Lagos hosts innovative Digital Humanities Workshop 2024

    University of Lagos hosts innovative Digital Humanities Workshop 2024

    University of Lagos (UNILAG) has held its Digital Humanities Workshop 2024, exploring the intersection of technology and the humanities. The event showcased the latest developments in the digital world and highlighted how digitisation is transforming the study and practice of the humanities.

    The hybrid event, “Exploring Opportunities and Possibilities in Digital Humanities and Digital Cultures,” occurred in Lagos, Nigeria, on August 14, 2024.

    It drew scholars, students, and tech enthusiasts from across and outside the campus, eager to explore the role of digitisation in humanities. The program featured keynote addresses, interactive workshops, and activities designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

    Read also: LDMT 2024 to empower marketing experts with future-ready strategies

    Driving Africa’s Digital Future

    The Special Guest, Mr Adeyemi Adeyinka, CEO/MD of Intermac Consulting Nig., underscored the importance of digital competence in today’s world, emphasising that equipping students, scholars, and researchers with digital skills is crucial for driving innovation and creating new knowledge.

    “One of our core missions is to foster digital competence among students, scholars, and researchers. We recognise the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” Adeyinka said. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to digital solutions rooted in the belief that technology can enhance research, teaching, and learning.

    Adeyemi revealed that Intermac Consulting has been in talks with UNILAG’s Centre for Digital Humanities (CEDHUL) about a turnaround renovation and the supply of computers and other resources to elevate the Centre to a global brand.

    He tied this vision to the African Union Agenda 2063, noting that digital transformation, including AI and machine learning, is essential for achieving the “Africa We Want for 2063.”

    Global Perspectives on Digital Humanities

    Brian Rosemblum, co-director of the Institute for Digital Research in the Humanities at the University of Kansas and the event’s keynote guest, provided a global perspective on the importance of digital humanities. Rosemblum emphasised that digital humanities is more than a service or methodology; it is a collaborative space where humanities scholars and technologists can explore and build innovative solutions.

    “Digital humanities is not a service or a methodology; it’s a meeting place for the humanities to explore and build technology solutions, such as digital publishing, digital marketing, and digital storytelling,” Rosemblum explained. His remarks resonated with attendees, underlining the potential of digital humanities to connect people, ideas, and technologies globally.

    Read also: Seven South African Tech startups join forces for Irish Tech Challenge

    Leadership and the Future of Digital Humanities in Africa

    The event also featured notable contributions from leaders in the field, including Dr Kofo Adedeji, co-director of CEDHUL; Ope Davies, convener of CEDHUL 2024; Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, vice-chancellor of UNILAG and special guest of honour; and Dr Ayo Ogunsan, a member of CEDHUL’s advisory board.

    These leaders discussed the role of digital humanities in shaping the future of Africa, with a particular focus on how the discipline can address the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities. They stressed the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government to foster a thriving digital ecosystem in Africa.

    As the event concluded, participants lauded UNILAG for its leadership in digital humanities. The Digital Humanities Workshop 2024 was widely regarded as a success, solidifying UNILAG’s reputation as Nigeria’s digital creation and innovation hub. The program showcased the university’s commitment to advancing digital humanities and highlighted the potential of digital technologies to transform education, research, and cultural understanding across Africa.

    About the University of Lagos’s Centre for Digital Humanities

    UNILAG’s Centre for Digital Humanities has established itself as a leading African institution dedicated to integrating technology into humanities research and education. The Centre offers various training programs and capacity-building initiatives to foster digital competence. With a commitment to innovation and global collaboration, CEDHUL continues to drive the digital transformation of humanities studies, significantly contributing to Nigeria’s academic and technological advancement.

  • IYD 2024: SMILE’s youth leadership summit sparks new mindset for African innovation

    IYD 2024: SMILE’s youth leadership summit sparks new mindset for African innovation

    2024 Youth Leadership Summit powered by SMILE in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre
    2024 Youth Leadership Summit powered by SMILE in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre

    The 2024 Youth Leadership Summit, hosted by the Strategy for Mentoring Initiative and Leadership Empowerment (S.M.I.L.E.) in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Nigeria, has emphasised the significance of youth in driving Africa’s progress.

    The summit, organised to commemorate International Youth Day, brought together hundreds of youth leaders, advocates, and participants from diverse backgrounds, uniting under the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” The summit was held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Regal Hall in Lagos.

    Read also: GTA 2024 conference spurs tech innovation and collaboration in Nigeria

    Mrs. Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins, Founder and President of S.M.I.L.E.
    Mrs. Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins, Founder and President of S.M.I.L.E.

    Mrs. Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins, Founder and President of S.M.I.L.E., highlighted the importance of celebrating Nigerian youth, expressing that one day is insufficient to showcase their abilities and contributions. She urged a shift in perspective, advocating for recognising youth as assets rather than problems. “We need to change the dynamics and begin to think of them as assets,” Bamgbose-Martins stated, emphasising the untapped potential within Nigeria’s youth that can drive the nation forward.

    Fostering Innovation Beyond IYD 2024

    Ronald Kayanja, Director of the United Nations Information Centre, Nigeria
    Mr. Ronald Kayanja, Director of the United Nations Information Centre, Nigeria

    Mr. Ronald Kayanja, Director of the United Nations Information Centre, stressed that the responsibility to secure Africa’s future lies within the continent. He emphasised that “Africa must invest in innovation, research, and S.T.E.M. courses,” and urged young people to take charge of their destiny by embracing these fields and contributing to the continent’s sustainable development.

    A highlight of the summit was the keynote speech by Mr. Idy Enang, CEO of Corporate Shepherds Limited, on the theme “SOAR: Elevating Youth to New Heights in Business, Career, and Aspirations.” Mr. Enang outlined three key factors for achieving greatness: Grace, Guts, and Grit. He emphasized the importance of cultivating these virtues to rise to new heights, stating, “Never sit where people are saying things; sit where people are doing things.”

    Dr. Gbonjubola Abiri, MD/CEO of Redi-Med Consulting Services, delivered an insightful session on “Leading with Wholesomeness: Your Mental Health and Well-being.” She emphasized the importance of managing stress and protecting mental health by cultivating a healthy mindset, managing emotions, and building empowering beliefs.

    Read also: Africacomicade to host Gamathon 2024 in Lagos, offering funding opportunities

    Youth Perspectives on Leadership and Mindset

    A participant at the summit, Joy Oloyede, emphasised the importance of mindset in addressing Africa’s challenges. He argued that while technology and artificial intelligence are vital tools, “the solution to Nigeria’s problem or any problem you have in Nigeria is we as humans and our mind….” He also stressed the need for personal development and mental transformation among the youth.

    Inclusive Leadership and Collaboration

    S.M.I.L.E.’s 2024 Youth Leadership Summit celebrated young leaders and showcased inclusivity. The event provided opportunities for youth with disabilities to learn and gain clarity, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey towards leadership and personal development. The event also fostered collaborations and partnerships among young people, encouraging them to work together to address common challenges and achieve shared goals.

    The summit left participants with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to making meaningful contributions to their communities. It underscored the importance of mentorship, adult involvement in youth development, and the power of collaboration in driving Africa’s progress.