•••Stakeholders Pledges Support, Cash Rewards for outstanding participants
By Mohammed Bashir Saliu
In a bid to assess the progress of the Kwara State Government’s digital literacy initiative organized through the Kwara Free Summer Coding and Digital Literacy Bootcamp, executives of the Nigerian Computer Society, Kwara State Chapter, led by Chairman Engr. Taofik Abdulkareem, paid a surprise visit to Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, venue of the ongoing Kwara Free Summer Coding and Literacy Bootcamp.
The team was impressed by the outstanding performance of the young participants, who demonstrated their acquired knowledge through practical displays.
The Kwara Free Summer Coding and Digital Literacy Bootcamp is a 6-week program designed for students of the State-owned or public secondary schools, open to student between the ages of 11-16.
The program initiated through the office of the Special Assistant on Digital Innovation to Kwara State Governor, Hon Ishola Kayode aims to equip students in public schools with hands-on knowledge in digital and technology skills with a selection of 6 centers, 2 each across the three senatorial district in the state.
Other stakeholders who joined the Nigerian Computer Society executives for the assessment of the Bootcamp were Dr. Akorede Kamil, Barrister Favour Posu, Founder of Unicorn Girl Africa, among other stakeholders.
Dr. Akorede Kamil, a medical practitioner, praised the initiative’s impact on the state’s youth. “This bootcamp is a game-changer for Kwara State. It’s equipping our young people with the skills they need to compete globally.”
To motivate the participants, Dr. Akorede Kamil pledged cash rewards of N50,000 and N40,000 to the two best participants, respectively.
Engr. Taofik Abdulkareem, Chairman, Nigerian Computer Society, Kwara State, commended the state government’s efforts in empowering young minds with digital literacy. “We are impressed with the level of progress and the enthusiasm of the participants. This initiative is a step in the right direction towards a digital Nigeria.” He said.
Barrister Favour Posu, Founder of Unicorn Girl Africa, emphasized the importance of digital skills in today’s world. “I’m thrilled to see these young minds embracing digital literacy. It’s a crucial skillset for their future success.” She said
On her part, Alhaja Jimoh O. Hafsat, representing the Ministry of Education, assured the government’s continued support for digital literacy initiatives. “We’re committed to empowering our youth with digital skills. This bootcamp is just the beginning.” She noted.
Hon. Ishola Kayode, Special Assistant on Digital Innovation to the Kwara State Governor, highlighted the initiative’s significance. “Our goal is to make Kwara State a hub for digital innovation. This bootcamp is a crucial step towards achieving that vision.”
He commended the Governor for his foresights, visionary and his readiness to always support all Digital related initiatives.
Hon Kayode noted that this week makes it the 5th week of the 6 weeks program.
He highlighted that apart from the Digital Literacy course there are two major courses which are Web Development and Phyton Programming.
The stakeholders present pledged their continued support for the initiative, ensuring its success and sustainability.
