In a significant move to cultivate digital literacy and innovation among the youth, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has forged a strategic partnership with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a renowned computing education charity based in the United Kingdom.
This collaboration aims to establish Code Clubs across Nigeria, targeting students aged 7 to 17.
The Code Clubs represent a series of extracurricular artificial intelligence (AI) programming clubs designed to introduce young participants to the world of coding and digital technology. The initiative seeks to instill creative problem-solving skills in the everyday lives of the youth, fostering a digitally literate and innovative mindset. The announcement of this pioneering program was made through a statement issued by the ministry on November 8.
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![New Code Clubs launched in Nigeria to help kids learn digital skills image 55](https://i0.wp.com/nosisnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/image-55.png?resize=783%2C822&ssl=1)
The Code Clubs will initially be established in 17 knowledge exchange centers, strategically positioned to reach a diverse range of students across the country. Subsequently, there are plans for expansion to other locations, covering all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The broad scope of the initiative reflects a commitment to nationwide accessibility and inclusivity in advancing digital education.
Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, underscored the significance of creating a knowledge pipeline in the country through free coding clubs, aligning with the overarching goal of accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy. The collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation is positioned as a catalyst for enhancing technical knowledge and talent development among the youth.
Within the partnership framework, the Raspberry Pi Foundation will provide educators and young participants with extensive toolkits, guidance, and support. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will take charge of overseeing the establishment and operation of Code Clubs nationwide. This collaborative effort seeks to harness the collective expertise of the partners involved, including individuals, educational entities, and organizations dedicated to advancing computing education.
To ensure the success of Code Clubs, a central organization will provide resources, support, and operational guidance to the partners. The educational pathways offered will cover a diverse range of coding and technology-related topics. These include robotics and electronics, game development, algorithms and problem-solving, introduction to coding, basic concepts, web development, programming languages, and project-based learning.
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![New Code Clubs launched in Nigeria to help kids learn digital skills image 56](https://i0.wp.com/nosisnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/image-56.png?resize=1024%2C1024&ssl=1)
This initiative comes on the heels of the Nigerian government’s commitment to advancing AI research and application. In October, the government unveiled a program providing grants of 5 million naira (approximately $6,444) to 45 AI-focused startups and researchers. This effort is part of the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme, aimed at fostering the widespread application of AI for economic progress. The Code Clubs, in conjunction with other initiatives, mark a concerted effort to position Nigeria at the forefront of digital education and technological innovation.
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