The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), in collaboration with the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK-based NGO with a focus on computing and digital technologies, has announced the launch of Build-A-Thon, which will introduce senior secondary school students to the maker culture.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, said, “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, which will run for 4 days in January 2024, is expected to have 1,500 students from 150 schools in 3 locations: Owerri, Maiduguri and Abeokuta.
The program participants will engage with trainers in an immersive learning experience designed to cultivate critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills as they build innovative projects.
I am excited to announce the launch of Build-A-Thon, an initiative of @FMCIDENigeria in partnership with the @RaspberryPi_org, that will introduce senior secondary school students to the maker culture.
Over 4 days in January 2024, 1,500 students in 3 locations – Owerri,… pic.twitter.com/tLGHSJ7lXz
— Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani (@bosuntijani) December 20, 2023
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.
Also Read: Nigerian Government Unveils $609m Fund For Tech Entrepreneurs
The overall goal of the programme includes:
- Showcase innovative projects
- Recognize achievements
- Foster future collaboration
- Inspire future leaders
- Promote lifelong learning
Build-A-Thon is a learning ecosystem comprising different offerings aimed at enhancing the skills of students. It includes technology labs, DIY boxes, and workshops to build human capital by enriching them with technologies in demand. It offers the latest technological skills like 3D printing, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things.
