The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) have partnered to spark a digital transformation in schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As part of this groundbreaking collaboration, 24 students from six FCT schools will participate in a two-week intensive training program focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding, and robotics.
This initiative is part of the third edition of the Reality House competition, a platform designed to inspire creativity and enhance problem-solving skills among young students. The event will bring together a vibrant group of 54 participants, including three students and a teacher from each of the eight competing schools, along with a 12-person support team. The program, which kicks off on Saturday, August 17, 2024, will cultivate the next generation of tech innovators through a reality TV show-style competition. The event will culminate in a debate where participants will showcase the skills they’ve gained during the training.
Schools participating in the competition include JSS Tudun Fulani, JSS Narai Karu, JSS Karu, JSS Kubwa 1, JSS Abaji, JSS Kekeshi, JSS Dutse Alhaji 2, and JSS Pyakasa. The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes economic diversification through digitalization, industrialization, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation. It also supports NITDA’s goal of boosting digital literacy and developing a robust pipeline of tech talent under its Strategic Action and Roadmap Plan (SRAP) 2.0, which targets 70% digital literacy by 2027.
NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “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 crucial step towards building a digitally empowered society.”
The program aims not only to enhance students’ academic performance but also to instill essential life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Participants who excel in the competition will be rewarded with cash prizes and continued mentorship from NITDA and FCT UBEB.
Previous editions of the Reality House competition have delivered impressive outcomes, including increased school enrollment and a growing interest in ICT among both students and educators. As this year’s event gets underway, expectations are high for even greater success in fostering digital literacy and innovation among Nigeria’s youth.
