Chizor Malize, MD/CEO of Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) has said its Tech4Growth Techathon will boost tech talents in Africa.
Speaking at the official launch of the event last Tuesday, Malize said there is a need to build a sustainable talent ecosystem to achieve sufficient digital growth and technology development across Africa.
“The Techathon would empower young minds from across Africa to embark on projects in critical domains, developing apps, businesses, innovations, and solutions,” she said.
She added that the transformative ideas from the event would then materialise into impactful projects and business opportunities, all under the guidance of over 28 mentors and judges.
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“FITC’s intervention through the recently launched TECH4Growth iEARTH Techathon is an acronym representing Innovation for Environment, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Transportation, and Healthcare.”
Iklima Salihu, special assistant to the director general (strategy and innovation) at the National Information Technology Development Agency, highlighted insights into the agency’s relentless efforts to develop and regulate IT in the country.
“Tech has evolved as a powerful force for socioeconomic development, and Nigeria must capitalise on its comparative advantages, including a talented and youthful population,” she said.
Salihu added that the agency is collaborating with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to leverage Nigeria’s brain capital and fortify the nation’s economy.
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According to FITC, the Techathon is one of the many innovative offerings targeted at youths and young people, aimed at equipping them with the essential skills and engagements required to thrive in the digital economy.
Malize noted FITC’s tireless efforts in ensuring the institute is meeting the pressing talent needs of the industry and creating opportunities for growth across all sectors.
The event brought together thought leaders and industry experts from diverse backgrounds and sectors such as Obi Asika, Convener of Omniverse; Niyi Ajao, founder & CEO at Digital Finance Solutions Ltd; Obaro Odeghe, executive director at FCMB; Ngozi Udochukwu, MD of Olives Bloom; Chinwe Iloghalu, Executive Director at Polaris Bank amongst others.
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“There is a crucial need to aggregate different training organizations and provide them with access to facilities, finance, and a pool of aspiring talents eager to acquire relevant tech skills,” Charles Emembolu, CEO at Crestsage Limited, said.
He highlighted the existing gaps in various sectors due to the underutilization of technology.
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