TechPression

Tag: Technology

  • Forbes positions Nigeria as a global leader in technology

    Forbes positions Nigeria as a global leader in technology

    The selection of Nigerians to join Forbes – Technology Council with an exclusive community comprising top-tier CIOs, CTOs, is positioning the country as a global leader in data protection.

    The latest selection of the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB), Dr. Vincent Olatunji to join the prestigious Forbes Technology Council confirms this.

    Read also: Nigerian Vincent Olatunji joins Forbes Tech Council in 2023

    Nigeria’s growing influence in the global tech industry

    Several notable Nigerians have served in international tech companies, demonstrating the country’s growing influence in the global tech industry. 

    Adebayo Ogunlesi, a Nigerian lawyer and investment banker who has made significant contributions to the tech industry, is the Chairman and Managing Partner of Global Infrastructure Partners, a leading infrastructure investment firm. Ogunlesi has also served on the boards of various technology and transportation companies, including General Electric and Uber.

    Funke Opeke is the founder and CEO of MainOne, a leading communications services company in West Africa. Under her leadership, MainOne has played a crucial role in expanding internet connectivity in Nigeria and other African countries. Opeke’s innovative approach to bridging the digital divide has earned her recognition as a prominent figure in the tech industry.

    Iyinoluwa Aboyeji is a Nigerian entrepreneur and co-founder of Flutterwave, a fintech company that provides payment solutions across Africa. Aboyeji has been instrumental in driving financial technology innovation in the region, and his work has gained international recognition. He has also founded other successful ventures, including Andela, a software development company.

    Olugbenga Agboola, known as GB, is the co-founder and CEO of Flutterwave. He has played a significant role in shaping the company’s growth and positioning it as a leading payment technology provider in Africa. Agboola’s expertise in the fintech industry has garnered attention from both local and international investors.

    These individuals and many others have made substantial contributions to the tech industry, representing Nigeria’s talent and entrepreneurial spirit on the global stage. Their appointments highlight the increasing recognition of Nigerian professionals in international tech companies and their valuable contributions to the industry.

    Bringing a wealth of expertise to the council

    The latest selection, Dr. Olatunji, upon receiving the appointment, expressed his delight in being recognized as a member of the Forbes Technology Council. He saw it as validation of his efforts to position Nigeria as a global leader in data protection compliance. 

    With a background in Geography and Planning, a doctorate degree from the University of Lagos, and certifications as a Public Private Partnership Specialist and Data Protection Officer, Dr. Olatunji brings a wealth of expertise to the Council.

    Throughout his extensive career in the public sector spanning over three decades, Dr. Olatunji has showcased his abilities in building strong relationships, delivering impactful results, and spearheading transformative initiatives. 

    He has successfully led teams, conducted significant research, developed effective policies, and implemented strategic programs at all levels of government in Nigeria. His skill set includes driving human growth, process transformation, negotiation, networking, and public speaking.

    Dr. Olatunji’s tenure at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), where he served as a director and Acting Director General, was marked by notable achievements in e-Government Development and Regulations, contributing to Nigeria’s digital transformation.

    Since his appointment as the pioneer National Commissioner of the NDPB in February 2022, Dr. Olatunji has emerged as a prominent figure in shaping data protection policies and frameworks aligned with international standards, bolstering Nigeria’s and Africa’s position in the global data protection landscape.

    With his participation in numerous capacity-building programs and representation of Nigeria at local and international engagements, Dr Olatunji brings a breadth of knowledge and experience to the Forbes Technology Council.

    His induction further reinforces his commitment to ensuring data protection and advancing Nigeria’s presence in the digital realm.

    Expressing his excitement, Scott Gerber, the founder of Forbes Councils, warmly welcomed Dr. Olatunji to the Council. 

    Gerber emphasized the Council’s mission to bring together accomplished leaders from various industries, fostering a curated network driven by social capital. This network aims to facilitate professional growth and enable members to make a significant impact on the business world.

  • Esaal, Allianz Insurance to improve Egypt’s online cc

    Esaal, Allianz Insurance to improve Egypt’s online cc

    Esaal, a technology platform for online health and wellness consultations, has launched a partnership with Allianz Insurance, a global insurance services company.

    The aim is to change the way online health and wellness solutions work in Egypt.

    As part of the partnership, Esaal will provide its one-stop-shop automated healthcare solutions to fully cover the medical, health, and mental well-being services for Allianz Insurance Company clients and employees, starting in Egypt, once the necessary approvals have been given by the right authorities.

    Fadi Doss, the founder and CEO of Esaal, said this about the partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with Allianz Insurance Company in Egypt because it will help us solve the problems that patients have getting access to healthcare and, in the end, improve their health and well-being.” We are excited about the new doors this strategic relationship will open for Esaal.

    It could be a springboard for Esaal to grow into new areas and offer important health and wellness services to people all over the region.

    He also said, “I’d like to thank A15 from the bottom of our hearts for believing in Esaal from the start.” With their important help and advice, they have helped us grow and succeed. Thank you for believing in our mission and for being a part of the Esaal family for as long as you have. He added.

     Read also: Unyte Africa, AXA Mansard offer innovative insurance to Africans

    Esaal’s technology supports safe physical wellness

    Esaal’s tech-enabled platform provides a quick, easy, and safe wellness service for physical health, mental health, and nutrition consultations with health professionals via text and video or voice calls. This saves patients time and money and gives them faster access to health professionals at the touch of a button.

    The health-tech site offers several doctors and medical professionals who consult on anxiety, physiotherapy, pediatrics, nutrition, and other areas.

    Users, who will now include Allianz Insurance clients, enterprises, and employees in Egypt, will have access to a wide selection of health and wellness professionals.

    Allianz Egypt seeks to simplify mental health and nutrition counseling for clients and staff. It hopes to do this by forging more partnerships with other MENA success partners.

    Egypt’s Esaal-Allianz Insurance Company cooperation will affect healthcare nationally and regionally. The two organizations’ objectives are to prioritize clients’ safety, insurance, and individualized digital treatment, especially in mental health.

    The cooperation integrates mental and nutritional advice with conventional insurance, a first in the region.

    Users can also use text messages, phone calls, remote consultations, and video chats for secure, dependable counseling. Allianz Egypt, an insurance behemoth, is partnering with Esaal, an Egyptian technology startup, to provide micro-support and health services to millions of consumers across the area.

    Since its debut, Esaal has been a major participant in the Egyptian health and wellness sector, as well as in KSA, Iraq, and Tunisia.

    Over 650 licensed consultants from various professions have provided health and wellness services to nearly 1 million consumers on the platform. The health-tech startup’s groundbreaking cooperation with Allianz Insurance in Egypt is another accomplishment.

    Esaal launched two innovative products last year. “On-the-spot consultation” revolutionizes instant professional consultations. Users can now call or video chat with specialists in real time. This tool lets consumers instantly obtain professional advice and book consultations, making healthcare convenient and efficient.

    Esaal added a “free one-on-one assessment” element to their corporate social responsibility (CSR) plan to promote diversity and social responsibility. After a tailored one-on-one examination, Esaal now offers complimentary consultations.

    This effort removes the “cost barrier,” so everyone can get the care and follow-up they need. The combining of mental and nutrition consulting with regular insurance by Esaal and Allianz Insurance Company in Egypt revolutionizes healthcare in the region.

    Nigerian fintech P2Vest unveils Insurance marketplace

    About Allianz

    Since 1890, Allianz has provided insurance worldwide. Allianz Egypt invested in AIIC in 1976. Allianz acquired 85% of AIIC in 2000. Four years later, Allianz fully bought the company, offering life, health, and property insurance to people and businesses through 16 branches and strategic agreements with major Egyptian banks.

    About Esaal

    Esaal, founded in 2018, connects people with trustworthy health and wellness specialists while protecting their privacy and confidentiality.

    Esaal’s large database of qualified professionals solves all mental and physical health problems at a cheap cost.

    Esaal offers a unique experience for people who want to live healthily.

    Esaal is the leading online health and wellness consulting platform in the region, offering clients a variety of secure online payment options and texting or video calling with their experts.

  • Pade HCM announces Pade 3.0, people management tool

    Pade HCM announces Pade 3.0, people management tool

    Pade HCM, a Nigerian HR tech SaaS startup, has announced the launch of Pade 3.0, an improved and more user-friendly version of its people management tool.

    Africa has the youngest people and the fastest population growth in the world.

    This rise is happening at the same time that digital technology is being used more on the continent. Digital nomads, who are a mix of millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha, are the people who make up this new workforce.

    Businesses will need a different set of tools, systems, and procedures as they integrate them into the workforce to make the working environment simpler, more effective, and more enjoyable.

    Pade’s human resources (HR) software tools have been helping companies build a remote workforce since 2020. Pade’s HR system is flexible and can be changed to fit the needs of each business.

    It also offers services like multi-currency payroll and compliance, employee information management, and performance management, among others.

    According to a statement, one of Pade’s first objectives after obtaining pre-seed funding earlier this year was to invest in product development to help Africa catch up to the modern workplace.

     Read also: Nigeria’s Lemonade Finance rebrands as LemFi

    Pade HCM launches 3.0

    The launch of Pade 3.0 is the culmination of months of dedicated efforts and meticulous planning towards that goal. With Pade 3.0, African groups can do more with their platform.

    It comes with an improved performance management system that helps African businesses make sure their workers’ work aligns with their business goals. With the OKR method or the Balanced Scorecard method, organizations can give each team member goals and see how they fit into the overall plan or goals of the company.

    With out-of-the-box performance reviews, companies can give workers feedback, point out areas where they can improve, and boost their productivity.

    Pade 3.0 also has better reporting tools, automatic remittances of statutory deductions, easier onboarding of new employees, flexible payroll plans, and a better user interface.

    Organizations can automate almost every HR process, like making out-of-cycle payment schedules for whatever reason, handling employee leave, and making reports on every data point in their People dashboard.

    The new drive in technology, VR or AR

    Pade assists African firms

    Pade has helped African companies manage their people from recruitment to leave since 2020. Payroll, performance, onboarding, benefits, and HR simplification are its characteristics.

    These elements improve HR and employee interactions for large and small companies.

    Pade CEO Seye Bandele said, “We help organizations become more productive so they can focus on strategic tasks.” “HR professionals shouldn’t waste time on automated tasks.”

    According to the 2018 Barometer RH survey, digital transformation was the top HR worry for 80% of African employers. Since COVID-19 broke out and multinational companies adopted new ways of working, digitizing HR operations has become important.

    Pade will make it possible for African businesses to digitize and automate their processes, which will increase their output and profits.

  • The new drive in technology, VR or AR

    The new drive in technology, VR or AR

    The competition to make the best VR or AR product has begun, marking the start of a new age. The AI war is still going on, and we’ve moved on to a new phase. This is how technology grows.

    Apple’s Vision Pro is a new spatial computer that has sent shock waves through the tech industry.

    This amazing product not only goes beyond what a regular headset can do (it’s not even called a headset), but it also has a wide range of features that you couldn’t even think of.

    Meta unveiled the Meta Quest 3 AR/VR device days before Apple did, sending the tech industry into an uprising. Apple’s surprise killed Meta’s buzz.

    We examined and contrasted both devices to help you choose.

    Read also: Apple unveils $3,500 augmented reality headset at Conference

    VR Price and Availability

    Even though Meta has released two versions of the Oculus Quest VR gear and plans to release the Quest 3 in the near future, the prices of these devices may not add up to the price of Apple’s Vision Pro, which costs $3,499.

    The Oculus Quest 2 and Quest Pro currently cost around $300 and $999, respectively, and the Meta Quest 3 is expected to cost $499. This big price gap could be a turnoff for many people, but it could also be a way for these two tech giants to market their products.

    Apple’s Vision Pro might be aimed at tech-savvy VR/AR fans and companies, while Meta’s main Quest line might be aimed at consumers. When reviewing what each company has to offer, the different prices may be just right for each product.

    If you’re interested in VR or AR and want to buy the Apple Vision Pro, you have a lot of time to save up because it won’t be on sale until early next year. On the other hand, Meta Quest 3 is expected to be released later this year.

    Battery durability

    The battery life on both the Meta’s Quest 3 and Apple’s Vision Pro is impressive, with the former offering up to 2 hours of nonstop use and the latter offering a prolonged 3 hours of operation. In terms of flexibility, the Apple Vision Pro is better than the Meta’s Quest because it has a plug-in pack for an extra battery.

    The Quest 2’s Elite Strap, which effectively doubles the battery life, gives users the option to increase the device’s uptime. But Meta hasn’t told you everything you need to know about how well the much-anticipated Quest 3 battery works. Who knows? It could just be a battery put in.

    Usage

    The use of natural intuitive models like hand tracking, eye tracking, and voice control is a great thing about the stand-alone Apple Vision Pro. Apple doesn’t include a controller or motion wand with the Vision Pro like it does with other VR and AR glasses.

    On the other hand, Meta Quest devices have controllers with common features like a thumbstick, touchpad, touch-sensitive buttons, and tracking sensors. They are also smaller and take up less space. Both headsets have stereo speakers and can send sound in different directions, but the Apple Vision Pro goes a step further by having audio pods built in to support spatial audio. For work, it also works with the Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad.

    Hardware Design

    In terms of size, the Quest 3 is said to be 40% more attractive than the Quest 2. But it looks more plastic and bigger than the other one. Apple’s Vision Pro has a 3D screen and a digital crown on the side. The Vision Pro from Apple has more buttons for features, but the Quest 3 has more.

    The Vision Pro’s sleek and simple design, which looks like ski goggles, is a breath of fresh air for people who are tired of using big devices. It’s comfy because the straps can be bent. There are three straps on Meta Quest 3. Meta Quest 2 is 40 times less thick.

    The Apple Vision Pro has an unusual external screen view. Laminated glass forms this distinctive feature. It uses human presence to seamlessly shift consumers from virtual to real. This is new to VR and AR headsets.

    The Apple Vision Pro has an external screen, unlike the Meta Quest 3. The Meta Quest 3, aimed at average customers, has three pill-shaped holes with camera sensors instead of a screen. Full-color passthrough allows hybrid reality.

    Display features

    Meta Quest 3:

    Display Features: Meta Quest 3 introduces an LCD display with two options:

    Resolution (both eyes): 4128 x 2208 pixels

    Resolution (per eye): 2064 x 2208 pixels

     

    Vision Pro:

    Display Features: The Vision Pro features two micro-OLED displays with the following specifications:

    Resolution (per eye): More than 4K

    Total pixel count: 23 million pixels.

    Both devices use pancake lenses.

    Software design

    The next-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset will power the Meta Quest 3. A four-camera array with two side cameras and a depth sensor will improve its tracking.

    The M2 processor will boost performance in the Apple Vision Pro. Apple will add an R1 chip to handle data from the 12 cameras and five sensors on the M2 chip.

    Meta Quest 3’s Android OS has a large collection of apps and games. VisionOS, Apple’s first “spatial operating system,” powers Apple Vision Pro. It has apps for iPads and iPhones.

    Meta launches the Quest 3 VR headset

    Requirements and registrations

    Apple Vision Pro is for productivity and entertainment, while Meta Quest 3 is for gamers. Meta Quest 3 may take longer to collect VR-friendly apps because of its focus on 3D reality.

    FaceTime is easier with the Apple Vision Pro. The Apple Vision Pro still supports Apple Arcade games.

    Apple Vision Pro analyzes the user’s face during sign-in to create a 3D avatar. The Meta Quest 3 requires a Meta account, whereas the Apple Vision Pro may need an Apple Optic ID for identification.

    Lastly, we can’t tell you which product to go for because they’re both great. The trademarks for Reality Pro and Reality One have been filed, according to a 2022 report from TomsGuide. Also, the fact that a new product called Vision Pro is coming out soon suggests that there might be a Pro version or an improved version of the Lite version.

    We can’t wait for more exciting new goods to come out, even if some of their features may change over the course of the year. Meta Quest 3 is making a new breed of series, and it looks like Apple is going in the same direction.

  • SC Women in Tech grants $50,000 to three Saudi female-led startups

    SC Women in Tech grants $50,000 to three Saudi female-led startups

    The Standard Chartered Women in Tech programme, which Saudi Arabia’s Falak Investment Hub started, gave three female-led startups in Saudi Arabia a total of $50,000 in cash prizes without giving them any stock.

    First place went to Sahm, which got $25,000; second place went to Nqoodlet, which took home $15,000; and third place went to Chefaa, which took home $10,000.

    The programme aims to help female entrepreneurs build digital businesses that can grow and help Saudi Arabia’s attempts to diversify its economy. At first, a group of judges chose eight entrepreneurs from the fintech, health tech, protech, and edutainment industries to participate in an eight-week incubator programme.

    Read also:-Seedstars launches program for women startups

    Mazen Al Bunyan, CEO of Standard Chartered Saudi Arabia, said, “Saudi women have shown amazing ability during this 8-week programme.” We’re proud to have helped Saudi Vision 2030’s commercial start-ups go digital. We successfully launched SC Women in Tech in Saudi Arabia as part of our global effort. Saudi Arabia has become our eighth market to offer this opportunity.

    All of the startups that took part in the programme learned about how to be businesses and got help and mentoring. The Standard Chartered team helped with their knowledge of financial services. Falak’s large network of investors, mentors, and industry experts was used in the relationship.

    Adwa AlDakheel, CEO of Falak Investment Hub, said, “We are happy to say that our innovative Women in Tech programme with Standard Chartered Bank has ended. The idea for the programme was to help female founders in the tech business in MENA, with a focus on KSA.

    She also thanked their partner, Standard Chartered, for the help and advice they gave the startups just starting.

    Since 2014, the SC Women in Technology programmes have been running in ten countries, including the US, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, the UAE, Bahrain, Ghana, Korea, Zambia, and Saudi Arabia. Since the programme started, a total of $1.4 million has been spent on it, and more than 2,600 women have taken part in it.

    NITDA Announces Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy

    Women in Tech

    Over the past few years, there has been a rise in the number of women working in technology around the world. But guys still do most of the work in tech. According to UNWTO reports, women founded 34% of tech-focused startups in the Arab world. Recent statistics show that in Saudi Arabia, more women work in the technology startup business than in Europe.

    According to a new report from Endeavour Insight, women in Saudi Arabia are more likely to start their own tech businesses than men. These studies show that the Saudi government wants to give women more power and give them more opportunities to work in business.

  • Tech-enabled low-carbon entrepreneurs in Africa get $48.1 million from E3LCEF

    Tech-enabled low-carbon entrepreneurs in Africa get $48.1 million from E3LCEF

    The E3 Low Carbon Economy Fund for Africa (E3LCEF)’s $48.1 million initial close marked a major step towards sustainability. 

    E3LCEF will help scale low-carbon economy-enabled technology and business models by investing in Africa’s next-generation low-carbon entrepreneurs.

    To accelerate African cleantech innovations and create a more egalitarian and resilient global economy, E3LCEF fosters early-stage entrepreneurs and provides follow-on finance.

    Lion’s Head and E3 Capital, which will invest in Africa, coordinated the deal. EAVF’s $75 million is managed by E3 Capital. East, West, and Southern Africa’s 15 decentralized energy enterprises are this fund’s investments. 

    Frontier and emerging market investments are managed by Lion’s Head. It assists governments, multilaterals, and private companies with corporate finance and manages $700 million through a subsidiary.

    Over $400 million has been invested in 30 African nations by E3 and Lion’s Head. Lion’s Head is AIFM, and E3 Capital is the fund adviser for Luxembourg-based E3LCEF.

     Read also: USAID Will Electrify 10,000 African Health Facilities With Renewable Energy

    E3LCEF’s New Investors

    Lion CEO Clemens Calice stated, “We are excited to back a new generation of entrepreneurs.” We think this is a good time to invest in African low-carbon companies with scale potential.

    The E3 team has unique expertise working with early-stage firms throughout the continent, and their portfolio is starting to show signs of definite winners.”

    Paras Patel, E3 Capital’s Founder and Managing Partner, added, “African businesses are starting to emerge with clear product market fit and a strong commercial potential at the core within the low carbon economy.” 

    “We’re witnessing amazing entrepreneurs. We’re passionate about helping African entrepreneurs establish the next generation of inventive firms that innovate, scale, and change our lives. My partner, Vladmir Dugin, and I are grateful to our investors and look forward to working with many new and established companies in the coming months.”

    “With its investment in the E3 Low Carbon Economy Fund I, KfW is investing as an anchor investor in the first fund of the newly formed E3 Capital team,” said KfW Development Bank Director of Equity Finance Stephanie Lindemann-Kohrs. E3 Management and Lions Head are experienced partners who can execute the funds’ investing plan. The Fund’s investments will help Africa attain climate neutrality and equity.

    Mastercard Accelerates Card Plastic Recycling

    E3LCEF’s Africa Goals

    E3LCEF promotes Africa-wide clean energy development and adoption. The fund sees large-scale low-carbon businesses on the continent as early-stage startups.

    E3LCEF also finds and supports creative African enterprises. 

    The fund’s founders are passionate about assisting future business leaders with demonstrable product-market fit and high economic potential in the low-carbon economy. E3LCEF helps these entrepreneurs realise their innovative ideas by giving money and improving lives across the continent.

    The Fund advocates global fairness and climate neutrality. E3LCEF investments will combat climate change and provide Africa with renewable energy. E3LCEF helps creative, scalable, low-carbon enterprises adapt to climate change, grow, and create jobs.

    Africa still needs energy. E3LCEF invests in autonomous energy startups. The fund targets East, West, and Southern African firms. 

    It aims to simplify energy access and provide communities with affordable, sustainable energy. E3LCEF initiatives offered commercial and industrial green energy and pay-as-you-go solar power to rural and neglected communities.

  • NITDA partners LEAP to harness technology potentials of young Nigerians

    NITDA partners LEAP to harness technology potentials of young Nigerians

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is partnering with LEAP Africa, a non-profit organization specializing in leadership development, to address the challenges faced by young Nigerians in the field of technology and entrepreneurship.

    NITDA recognizes the importance of retaining local talent and providing them with opportunities to thrive within Nigeria.

    NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, who made this disclosure during a visit by a team from LEAP Africa led by its Executive Director, Kehinde Ayeni, expressed concern about the significant number of Nigerian youths migrating to other countries in search of better opportunities. 

    He said the brain drain phenomenon has resulted in a depletion of talent resources within the nation and to combat this, the Federal Government of Nigeria has taken the initiative to create enabling opportunities through the implementation of developmental guidelines, mentorship programs, establishment of social infrastructures, and funding.

    He stressed that the partnership between NITDA and LEAP Africa aims to harness the potential of Nigerian youth and equip them with the necessary skills to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the technology and entrepreneurship sectors. By providing mentorship, developmental programs, and support, the partnership seeks to empower young Nigerians to become leaders in the technology industry.

    Read also: Two Nigerian startups emerge as LEAP 2023 Global Awards winners

    NITDA’s Commitment to nurturing young talents

    The NITDA boss analyzed that the large population of young people in Nigeria presents a global competitive advantage for the country, and by investing in their talents and providing them with the right resources, Nigeria can foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Hence, the collaboration between NITDA and LEAP Africa signifies a commitment to nurturing local talent and creating an environment conducive to their success.

    Highlighting the significance of technology as a major driver of the global economy, with individuals playing a critical role, the Director General of NITDA emphasized the need to prioritize the requirements of innovators in order to cultivate a thriving and innovative ecosystem within the country.

    Regarding potential areas of collaboration with LEAP Africa, the NITDA director mentioned the Nigeria Startup Act, which has recently been enacted and can serve as a tool for both organizations to unlock and stimulate activities within the entrepreneurial and innovative ecosystem.

    He stated, “With the Act in place, the Council inaugurated, and the implementation framework developed, we seek partners to work together in its execution. Collaboration is crucial as success cannot be achieved in isolation. Therefore, we need to collaborate as an ecosystem to accomplish our goals.”

    Providing further details on the potential of the Act, the Director General revealed that the implementation committee has been subdivided into sub-committees to identify specific thematic areas that will catalyze the process.

    These thematic areas include Ecosystem Development, Capacity Building, Funding, Tax and Fiscal Incentives. He assured that the Federal Government is fully committed to providing infrastructural support to enhance the ecosystem, conducting extensive programs to build soft skills, allocating adequate funding to the ecosystem, and influencing policies that will facilitate its growth.

    NITDA to develop Africa’s technology in partnership with experts 

    Other strategies to enhance the skills of participants

    In addition to the Nigeria Startup Act, the National Outsourcing Strategy and the National Digital Talent Strategy were mentioned as initiatives developed by NITDA to enhance the skills of participants in the entrepreneurial and innovative ecosystem, thereby making them competitive on a global scale.

    The Director General also announced plans to establish innovation hub clusters across the country, aiming to develop the capabilities of talented Nigerian youth and increase their global marketability.

    “We want focus on services which are digitally driven and provide the talent to build those services. You can live in Nigeria, then connect to the global value chain and earn better. You don’t need to travel and that’s what will help us to build the Nigeria we want”, he said.

    During her remarks, Kehinde Ayeni, the Executive Director of LEAP Africa, highlighted the organization’s involvement in various projects over its 20-year existence. These projects include the Social Innovation Programme, Nigerian Youths Futures Fund, and the iLEAD programme, all aimed at building the capacities of young people and bridging the digital divide in Nigeria.

    Ayeni expressed LEAP Africa’s desire to collaborate with NITDA to leverage information technology in finding solutions to the challenges faced by the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in the country.

    “As we reflect on our impact over the past 20 years, one area where we have identified room for improvement is the role of technology and the power of innovation in realizing the Nigeria and Africa that we aspire to,” she concluded.

  • How Blockchain technology will change African business models

    How Blockchain technology will change African business models

    Blockchain technology, though far from reaching its full potential, is set to revolutionize all traditional business models. 

    Its creative products and services can solve many problems that come with using standard business models.

    In recent years, the telecommunications business has been criticized for looking like it’s stuck in the past.

    Fans of blockchain think that the telecom business needs to change as quickly as possible and stop relying on old methods. They think that old methods should be replaced with new, fast, and changing technology.

    So, blockchain is being welcomed with open arms by the telecom business. In 2018, blockchain technology in telecommunications was worth $46 million. In 2023, it is expected to be worth $1 billion. Blockchain SIM cards are one way that blockchain technology can help the telecommunications business.

    Read also: Nigeria approves usage of Blockchain technology

    Sim cards on the blockchain

    Blockchain SIMs employ blockchain technology. Crypto SIM cards are blockchain-based SIM cards. Traditional SIM cards authorize and link mobile devices to cellular networks for voice, text, and data services. However, a blockchain SIM card examines blockchain’s decentralization and transparency. Blockchain SIM cards improve privacy, security, and mobile connection control.

    Traditional SIM cards hold data on centralized systems, which hackers may easily infiltrate. Blockchain SIM cards tackle this problem by using ledger technology to store and track SIM card data. Blockchain SIM card data is scattered over a web of nodes, making it difficult to access.

    Blockchain SIM cards offer identity management services that are both safe and clear. In a strange way, this stops theft and network access. Mobile connections are needed in places that are far away and poor. Blockchain SIM cards are a new way to talk on your phone that makes conversations more secure, easy to use, and decentralized.

    African blockchain business funding rises by 429%

    Blockchain-based SIM Cards’ Influence on Africa

    SIM cards that use blockchain technology could change the way the African and Nigerian markets work for good. Taking into account how creative they are, here are some of the ways that Nigeria’s use of SIM cards based on the blockchain can help:

    Increased Financial Participation: A lot of Nigerians and Africans do not have bank accounts. SIM cards based on the blockchain can offer mobile banking and financial services. This means that users can own and move digital assets, get microloans, and take part in the growing digital ecosystem. Access to financial services is improved when people are more involved in their finances.

    Decentralised Identity Management: Blockchain SIM cards give customers more power over their data. This stops people from using other people’s names to get health care, schooling, or government benefits. The use of blockchain SIM cards in Nigeria and Africa improves trust and communication.

    Cross-Border Connectivity: Africa has the most mobile people in the world. People move from country to country for many reasons. The old ways of roaming are expensive and hard to handle. Due to their decentralized and borderless connectivity, SIM cards built on blockchain can offer cheap and flexible communication services anywhere. It motivates people to work together and put money into Africa.

    Blockchain-based SIM cards in Africa and Nigeria might need to be built up and regulated, but they can solve problems and open up new paths.

  • Experts charge Tanzania media owners to invest in technology

    Experts charge Tanzania media owners to invest in technology

    The proprietors of media outlets in Tanzania have been encouraged to enhance their earnings by increasing their investments in digital technology, innovation, and relevant business models.

    Concurrently, they were also charged to invest funds into audience surveys in order to have data at their disposal while having discussions with advertisers.

    This appeal was made as part of the resolutions that were passed at the national conference that was held to commemorate the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day. 

    This event took place in Zanzibar from May 1st to May 3rd, 2023 and was attended by the President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Mwinyi.

    Bakari Machumu, Chief Executive Officer of Mwananchi Limited, stated at the session on the State of Innovation and Media and Viability in East Africa that it is simpler for someone within a company to advertise in a space that is backed with data.

    Machumu emphasised that media companies need to shift their focus to marketing strategy and training.

    Mwananchi’s CEO explained further that the media corporations pay more attention to “media leadership and innovation among editors and journalists where they must evolve beyond journalistic skills to embrace the business side of things.”

    Additionally, Machumu the importance of their having an entrepreneurial mindset.

    Read also: Tanzanian biotech firm NovFeed, wins $1 million Milken-Motsepe Prize in Agritech

    Increasing In-House Media Training

    On her part, Rose Haji Mwalimu, a scribe who is also a founding member of Tanzania Media Women’s Association (TAMWA), advocated for the necessity of conducting regular in-house training in media companies as well as an orientation programme for newcomers in order for scribes to perform their responsibilities in an ethical and responsible manner.

    TAMWA Chairperson Joyce Shebe noted during her introductory words that the media may have accomplished a lot as a country, but she also mentioned some of the problems, like the little voices of women sources in the media asking scribes to change the narratives. Shebe was speaking during her opening remarks at the conference.

     

    Reading Culture Decline Among Journalists

    On his part, Salim Salim from Zanzibar stated that there was a weak reading culture among youths, to the point where even young journalists were unaware of crucial topics pertaining to growth.

    A number of other resolutions have been proposed, and one of them is for owners of media outlets to establish fact checking desks. The purpose of these desks is to combat hate speech, fake news, misinformation, and disinformation and to capitalise on the public’s trust in order to thrive in the new digital era.

    The majority of people who participated in the discussion believe that providing factual information is the only way to differentiate oneself from what is known as citizen journalism. In this style of journalism, anyone may take a photo and share it online without having it verified.

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    The national conference, which was held under the global theme Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a Driver for All Other Human Rights, brought together more than 300 delegates.

    These delegates include representatives from the government, the United Nations, development partners, journalists, online and offline media, civil society and human rights defenders, research and academia for the purpose of thematic discussions in pre-events and side meetings organised for the conference.

  • Online learning may replace in-person tutoring

    Online learning may replace in-person tutoring

    Online learning has gained in popularity in recent years, and its popularity has expanded as a result of the last epidemic. 

    It’s encouraging to see people adapting to new ways of learning and making the most of the tools at their disposal. 

    The availability of online learning platforms and technologies has provided learners with exciting options to access educational resources and connect with teachers from anywhere in the world. 

    Online learning has numerous advantages over traditional in-person tutoring programmes, making it an increasingly popular educational option. In the following section, we will look at the exciting possibilities of online learning and how it might supplement or even replace traditional in-person tutoring programmes. 

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    What makes online learning preferable?

    1. Flexibility

    The flexibility of online learning is one of its key benefits. The flexibility of online learning allows students to arrange their education around their hectic schedules from any location at any time. For working professionals or students who have other obligations, such as family responsibilities, this flexibility is especially crucial.

    Students in traditional in-person tutoring groups have to show up at a certain time and place, which can be hard for people whose schedules aren’t very flexible. This lack of freedom can make it hard to learn, especially for students who have a lot of other things to do.

    2. Access to more classes

    When you take online classes, you can take more than one course on the same website or programme. This means that you don’t have to move from one tutor to another in order to go to your classes. One site will have everything you need to study from home.

    Traditional in-person tutoring classes, on the other hand, are limited by area and availability. Students may have to drive to get to classes, and they may not be able to take courses that aren’t offered in their area.

    3. Lower Costs

    Online learning can also be cheaper than going to a teacher in person. Online courses usually have lower tuition costs than regular ones, and students can save money on travel, housing, and other costs that come with them.

    Traditional in-person tutoring classes, on the other hand, can be expensive, especially if students have to drive to get to class. Also, students in in-person classes often have to buy textbooks or other learning tools, which can add to the cost of the course.

    Students only need to seek academic aid from expert tutors or teachers when they need it since most online tutoring platforms offer on-demand services. Therefore, they don’t need a weekly or monthly schedule. This concept is now popularized by SweetStudy.

    Sweetstudy connects students with professional tutors who offer help to students seeking solutions to particular questions. The payment is made on a question-by-question basis, thus making the whole process more cost-friendly.

    4. Learning That Fits You

    When compared to teaching in person, online learning lets you learn in a more personalized way. Online courses often give students access to movies, podcasts, interactive quizzes, and other kinds of multimedia. 

    This gives students the chance to learn at their own pace and in their own way, which can be especially helpful for students who learn in different ways.

    On the other hand, standard tutoring classes in person might not be able to meet each student’s unique learning needs. In-person classes usually follow a set programme, and students may not be able to dig deeper into topics or move at their own pace.

    5. Better experience in learning

    Students can get more out of their learning when they do it online. Online courses often have interactive parts, like online conversations, virtual labs, and simulations, which can help bring course material to life and get students involved in the learning process.

    On the other hand, traditional tutoring groups in person might not have these kinds of interactive features, which could make learning less fun and less effective.

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    6. Technology 

    Technology is a big part of online learning today, which can give it an edge over traditional tutoring classes. Tutors can make their lessons more effective by using tools and apps like interactive whiteboards, screen sharing, and video conferencing.

    These tools can make learning more fun and involved for students, which can help them remember and understand what they are learning. Technology can also make it easier for students with disabilities, such as hearing or eye problems, to learn online. 

    Learning in person will never really be replaced. But online learning is a big help when it comes to tutoring for theoretical topics or courses. Will it take the place of all in-person tutoring? Most likely, yes, but even if that doesn’t happen, it will still be a good substitute for decades in the teaching field.