Many young Africans lack access to quality education in tech fields – Toluwaleke Gbemi Ogidan

Recognized as the West Africa Youth Role Model and recently appointed as the West Africa Youth Ambassador, Toluwaleke Gbemi Ogidan is a trailblazer shaping the future of African youth through technology. In this interview, Toluwaleke shares insights on his journey, the transformative power of digital literacy, and his mission to empower the next generation of African tech leaders. He says many communities still view technology as a luxury rather than a necessity. Daniel Obi brings the excerpts

What inspired you to focus on youth empowerment through technology?

My journey began with firsthand experiences of young people’s challenges, particularly in accessing technological resources. I saw untapped potential in African youth, hindered by talent and a lack of access and opportunities. That realization fueled my commitment to bridging the digital divide—ensuring that young Africans are not just consumers of technology but active innovators shaping the future.

Can you share more about your work that led to your appointment as West Africa Youth Ambassador?

One of my proudest initiatives was distributing robotic kits and training students in underserved communities through Liensy Inc. I also led efforts in data science and machine learning training programs, equipping young minds with critical skills for the future. These initiatives are more than just projects—they are stepping stones for young Africans to compete on a global scale.

What does this recognition mean to you, and what are your key priorities as a Youth Ambassador?

It is both a great honor and an immense responsibility. Beyond the title, it is a call to action—to expand digital literacy, foster innovation, and create platforms where African youth can showcase their talents on a global stage. I am committed to pushing for accessible STEM education, advocating for policy changes in tech education, and ensuring that young Africans are at the forefront of the digital revolution.

What major challenges have you encountered on this journey, and how have you overcome them?

A key challenge has been raising awareness about the role of technology in youth development. Many communities still view technology as a luxury rather than a necessity. Overcoming this required engaging stakeholder, sharing success stories, and developing impact-driven programs that demonstrate real-world applications of AI, robotics, and data science.

In your view, what is the biggest technological challenge facing West Africa today?

The digital skills gap is a critical issue. While Africa is a hub of untapped talent, many young people lack access to quality education in tech fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science. Without intervention, this gap will widen, limiting Africa’s ability to leverage emerging technologies for economic growth. My mission is to bridge this divide by expanding STEM education and fostering partnerships with tech industry leaders.

What advice do you have for young Africans looking to leverage technology?

Start small but start now. The digital revolution does not require perfection; it demands persistence and curiosity. Find mentors, take advantage of online learning platforms, and consistently apply what you learn. Africa’s next wave of innovation will come from young minds daring to build solutions that address local and global challenges.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a youth ambassador and role model?

My goal is to create a future where young Africans are not just participants but leaders in the global tech industry. I want to see an Africa where digital literacy is a right, not a privilege, and where tech education is seamlessly integrated into mainstream learning. In the coming years, I aim to train thousands of young Africans in cutting-edge technologies, collaborating with organizations to make these skills accessible to all.

Toluwaleke Gbemi Ogidan is not just an advocate for youth empowerment. He is a driving force in Africa’s digital revolution. Through his work, he is proving that the future of technology in Africa is not just about access; it is about ownership, innovation, and leadership. As the West Africa Youth Ambassador, his mission is clear: to shape a generation of African tech leaders ready to transform the world.