Grace Ashiru
These initiatives tackle the obstacles to accessing tech education and careers while highlighting the crucial role AI skills play in fostering innovation and prosperity. They establish the groundwork for a flourishing tech hub, contributing to economic growth and technological progress.
On April 30, the Kaduna State Government, in collaboration with Google and Data Science Nigeria, launched the AI for Beginners Learning Video Series. Delivered in Hausa, the program strives to make AI education more inclusive in Northern Nigeria, ensuring that technology is culturally relevant and accessible to women in the region.
Governor Uba Sani recently underscored the state’s commitment to digital transformation and economic enhancement, focusing on empowering women with artificial intelligence (AI) skills to foster innovation and economic prosperity. “AI is not just the future; it’s presently shaping our world. By providing our citizens, particularly our women, with AI training, we are setting the stage for a more prosperous and innovative Northern Nigeria and establishing Kaduna as a leading tech hub,” he stated.
Northern Nigeria faces multiple challenges that impede tech education and career prospects, including socio-cultural complexities and language barriers. According to Unicef’s 2022 report on Education Opportunities for Out-of-School Children (OOSC), one-third of children in Nigeria do not attend school, with 66% of them in the Northeast and Northwest, and over half of them are girls. This situation underscores the urgency for educational and skills enhancement in technology for women in Northern Nigeria, as these competencies are vital for digital progress.
The initiative uses culturally relevant visuals and animations to make digital concepts more accessible, thereby boosting women’s engagement in the tech sector. The educational series is available on platforms such as YouTube and in schools throughout Kaduna State.
This initiative represents a significant advancement in equipping women in Northern Nigeria with crucial digital skills, thus promoting economic growth and technological innovation in the area.
