The Nigerian federal government, in collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK-based computing education charity, is embarking on an exciting initiative to establish Code Clubs across Nigeria.
These Code Clubs are designed for students aged 7 to 17 and serve as extracurricular artificial intelligence (AI) programming hubs, with the goal of nurturing digitally literate and innovative young minds in Nigeria.
The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy announced this groundbreaking program on November 8th.
The primary objective of these Code Clubs is to introduce young participants to the world of coding and digital technology, encouraging them to apply creative problem-solving skills in their daily lives.
Initially, these clubs will launch in 17 knowledge exchange centers and then expand to various locations across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized the significance of fostering a knowledge pipeline in Nigeria through free coding clubs, in partnership with the Raspberry Pi Foundation.
This initiative aims to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy by enhancing technical knowledge and talent development.
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As part of this collaboration, the Raspberry Pi Foundation will provide educators and young participants with comprehensive toolkits, support, and guidance.
Simultaneously, the Ministry will oversee the establishment and operation of Code Clubs throughout the country through a well-structured partnership framework.
A crucial aspect of this initiative is the support extended to partners, which includes individuals, educational institutions, and organizations dedicated to advancing computing education.
These partners will receive resources, assistance, and operational guidance from a designated central organization.
The Ministry has outlined a wide range of educational pathways for Code Club partners, covering various coding and technology-related subjects such as robotics, electronics, game development, algorithms, web development, programming languages, and project-based learning.
In a related development in October, the Nigerian government introduced a program offering 5 million naira (approximately $6,444) grants to 45 AI-focused startups and researchers.
This initiative is part of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, which aims to promote the extensive application of AI for economic progress and technological advancement in the country.
In summary, the partnership between the Nigerian government and the Raspberry Pi Foundation to establish Code Clubs represents a significant step towards nurturing young talent and boosting Nigeria’s digital economy through coding and technology education.
