By Mahmood Abdullahi Loke, Director, Youth Circle for Social Development
In Nigeria, the youth population represents a significant portion of the country’s demographics. With a median age of 18.1 years and boasting the largest population of youth globally, Nigeria stands at the forefront of a demographic revolution. Approximately 70% of the population is under 30, with a staggering 42% falling under the age of 15 (source: theconversation.com, 2023).
However, there is a prevailing stigma surrounding the youth, largely associated with irresponsibility and fraud. This unfortunate narrative has led to widespread misconceptions about the potential of young Nigerians. Yet, the solution to this issue lies in providing quality education, especially in the field of technology. Not only does this address Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), but it also directly influences Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By investing in quality tech education, we can transform the Nigerian economy and eradicate the negative stereotypes surrounding our youth.
Sustainable Development Goal 4 focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. In Nigeria, providing quality education, particularly in the field of technology, is paramount. This education isn’t just about acquiring knowledge but also about acquiring the right skills. Tech education empowers the youth with the tools they need to succeed in the modern world. By bridging the digital divide and fostering a culture of learning, we can unleash the full potential of our youth and drive economic growth.
Decent work and economic growth, as outlined in SDG 8, are closely linked to the provision of quality education. When the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills, economic growth becomes inevitable. Investing in quality tech education can result in a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and attracting foreign investment. As we empower our youth with tech skills, we also create opportunities for decent work, thereby stimulating economic growth.
As the world moves towards a digital future, technology is becoming an indispensable tool for education. Technology enables us to overcome barriers to education and ensures that learning is accessible to all. By harnessing the power of technology, we can provide quality education to a larger population, including those in remote areas. Technology is not just a means of education; it is also a tool for growth. In Nigeria, tech leaders must come together to revolutionize education, making it more accessible and relevant to the needs of the modern world.
The tech industry is vast and offers a wide array of opportunities for economic growth. Nigeria has the potential to become a hub for tech experts, specializing in niche areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, reverse engineering, ethical hacking, and more. By investing in quality tech education, we can create a pool of skilled professionals capable of driving innovation and growth. With the right skills and knowledge, our youth can not only secure decent work but also contribute significantly to the economy.
Tech industry leaders play a crucial role in shaping the future of education. By collaborating and investing in quality tech education, these leaders can drive significant change. By providing mentorship, resources, and support, they can empower the youth with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age. Moreover, tech companies can play an active role in developing curricula, providing internships, and offering scholarships, thereby creating a talent pipeline that meets the demands of the industry.
If Nigeria cultivates the right technology skills amongst its youth, it will also contribute to the country’s exportation of services to other developing nations. Nigeria itself is looking for more tech-skilled individuals, and the demand abroad is equally massive. By equipping our youth with quality tech education, we not only boost the local economy but also position Nigeria as a leader in the global tech market.
In conclusion, quality tech education holds the key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and eradicating the stigma of irresponsibility and fraud associated with the youth. By aligning our efforts with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 8, we can create a brighter future for generations to come. Tech education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about acquiring the skills needed to thrive in the digital age. Let us come together, invest in our youth, and harness the power of technology to drive economic growth and prosperity in Nigeria.
Together, we can empower the youth, transform the nation, and build a brighter future for all.