The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) in Nigeria, in collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK-based NGO focusing on computing and digital technologies, has announced the launch of Build-a-Thon. This initiative aims to introduce senior secondary school students to the maker culture and promote early technology adoption.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stated, “The Build-A-Thon initiative is part of our strategic plan to promote early-technology adoption to shape tomorrow’s innovation leaders.”
The Build-A-Thon programme is scheduled to run for four days in January 2024 and will involve 1,500 students from 150 schools across three locations: Owerri, Maiduguri, and Abeokuta. The participants will engage with trainers in an immersive learning experience designed to cultivate critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as they work on building innovative projects.
Exceptional teams in each location will be recognised across different categories, including the most innovative design, the most sustainable project, and an award for the project with the most utility.
The overall goals of the programme include showcasing innovative projects, recognising achievements, fostering future collaboration, inspiring future leaders, and promoting lifelong learning.
Build-A-Thon is a comprehensive learning ecosystem that includes technology labs, DIY boxes, and workshops to enhance students’ skills. It focuses on enriching them with in-demand technologies such as 3D printing, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things.