The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) are collaborating for the purposes of achieving digital revolution in FCT schools.
The Director, Corporate Affairs and External Relations of the agency, Mrs. Hadiza Usman, stated that the partnership would involve 24 promising students from six FCT schools in a two-week intensive training programme focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Coding, and Robotics.
During 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, comprising three students and a teacher from each of the eight schools as well as 12-person support team.
The programme, which kicked off last Saturday, aims to cultivate a new generation of tech-savvy problem solvers. Participants are 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.
According to the Director, the 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.
Commenting on the ICT-capacity building initiative for the students, the NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said: “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.”
The programme will not only enhance students’ academic performance but also instill essential life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Winners will be rewarded with cash prizes and continued mentorship from NITDA and FCT UBEB.
Previous editions of the reality show have yielded impressive results, including increased school enrollment and a growing interest in ICT among students and educators.
