News Highlights:
- NITDA and FCT UBEB are partnering to launch an intensive two-week training program in AI, Coding, and Robotics for 24 students from six FCT schools.
- The third edition of the Reality House competition will feature 54 participants from eight schools competing in a reality TV show-style event.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) are collaborating to spark a digital transformation in schools across the FCT.
A statement signed by Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director, Corporate Affairs and External Relations at NITDA and made available to Digital TimesNG on Friday, disclosed that the groundbreaking partnership would see 24 promising young minds from six FCT schools immerse themselves in a two-week intensive training programme focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Coding, and Robotics.
The third edition of the Reality House competition, which is designed to stimulate creativity and problem-solving will host a dynamic group of 54 individuals – three students and a teacher from each of the eight schools, plus a 12-person support team.
Billed to kick off on Saturday, August 17, 2024, the programme aims to cultivate a new generation of tech-savvy problem solvers.
Participants drawn 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 house TV show-style competition, culminating in a head-to-head debate showcasing their newly acquired skills.
Hadiza explained that this initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of accelerating diversification through industralisation, digitalisation, creative arts, manufacturing and innovation and NITDA’s pillar of fostering digital literacy and creating a pipeline of tech talent.
The NITDA’s Strategic Action and Roadmap Plan (SRAP) 2.0, which targets 70% digital literacy by 2027, is central to this partnership.
“By equipping these young students with AI, coding, and robotics skills, we are investing in the future of Nigeria. This collaboration with FCT UBEB is a significant step towards building a digitally empowered society,” said NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.
The programme will not only enhance students’ academic performance but also instill essential life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Hadiza further disclosed that winners will be rewarded with cash prizes and continued mentorship from NITDA and FCT UBEB.
Digital TimesNG recalls that previous editions of the reality show have yielded impressive results, including increased school enrollment and a growing interest in ICT among students and educators.