The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) have partnered to launch a digital revolution in FCT schools.
This collaboration will provide 24 promising students from six FCT schools with an intensive two-week training programme focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Coding, and Robotics.
This initiative is part of the third edition of the Reality House competition, designed to foster creativity and problem-solving skills. The programme will host 54 participants, including three students and a teacher from each of the eight participating schools, along with a 12-person support team.
Set to begin on Saturday, August 17, 2024, the programme aims to cultivate a new generation of tech-savvy problem solvers. Students from JSS Tudun Fulani, JSS Narai Karu, JSS Karu, JSS Kubwa 1, JSS Abaji, JSS Kekeshi, JSS Dutse Alhaji 2 and JSS Pyakasa will compete in a reality show-style competition, culminating in a head-to-head debate to showcase their newly acquired skills.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, which emphasizes accelerating diversification through industrialisation, digitalisation, creative arts, manufacturing and innovation. It also supports NITDA’s Strategic Action and Roadmap Plan (SRAP) 2.0, which aims to achieve 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027.
“By equipping these young students with AI, coding, and robotics skills, we are investing in the future of Nigeria,” said NITDA Director-General Kashifu Abdullahi. “This collaboration with FCT UBEB is a significant step towards building a digitally empowered society.”
A statement by NITDA’s director of corporate affairs and external relations, Mrs. Hadiza Umar emphasised that the programme will enhance students’ academic performance and instill essential life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork. Winners will receive cash prizes and continued mentorship from NITDA and FCT UBEB.
Previous editions of the Reality House competition have led to impressive outcomes, including increased school enrollment and a growing interest in ICT among students and educators.
