By Modupe Gbadeyanka
No fewer than 50 teenagers have completed an intensive training programme at Coding School in Lagos, courtesy of ThinkYoung and Boeing.
The 30-hour learning programme allowed the participants to learn more about computer programming, web design, robotics, and drones.
Since 2019, about 690 teenagers have participated in Coding Schools in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Tanzania, with over 60 per cent being girls.
By breaking stigmas, the initiative provides them with a supportive environment and early exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
At the Lagos programme, which took place from Wednesday, May 29 to Saturday, June 1, 2024, the participants, mainly from 10 to 17 years, were equipped with advanced digital skills essential for future careers.
They were tutored by experienced tech and aviation professionals, who also focused on teaching soft skills, including presentation and communication.
“The significance of advanced digital skills cannot be overstated. Industries like aerospace are in dire need of tech-savvy talent.
“Our Coding School aligns seamlessly with Nigeria’s ambitions to develop its digital economy and empower its people, and we’re excited to expand our partnership with ThinkYoung to West Africa,” the president of Boeing for the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, Kuljit Ghata-Aura, said.
Also, the founder of ThinkYoung, Andrea Gerosa, said, “We are thrilled to introduce this program to Nigeria for the first time.
“Young people view digital technologies as an integral part of their daily lives, which is why ThinkYoung and Boeing are committed to equipping them with the necessary ICT skills to participate in and lead the digital transformation within their communities.”
One of the beneficiaries, Adeyeye Boluwatife, 16, said, “I enjoyed the hands-on project to create a website and got excited about developing STEM skills.”
