Teens World Foundation (TWF) launched its first-ever SkillXplore Program in Lagos, welcoming 25 teenagers from underserved communities. The program offers the teens full scholarships to develop key tech skills through hands-on training.
The program which commenced on Sunday, October 6, 2024, marks a significant step toward addressing the skills gap in Nigeria by providing education that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in quality education, economic growth and innovation.
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Setting the stage for transformation through tech skills
The event opened with a speech by Kossy Okonkwo, founder of TWF, who encouraged the teens to redefine their futures by gaining skills that will not only improve their personal prospects but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader technological advancement. Okonkwo emphasised TWF’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities, ensuring that background and privilege do not limit a teenager’s potential to succeed.
Igniting creativity in young innovators through innovation
Farhan Sodiq, a senior software developer, delivered the keynote speech, inspiring the teenagers to think beyond their current circumstances and embrace tech as a tool for innovation. He urged participants to see themselves as the drivers of Nigeria’s future, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunities presented through SkillXplore.
Following the speech, an interactive ice breaker session allowed the teens to pitch innovative solutions, ranging from VR-based cultural experiences to robotics-driven festival enhancements. These projects demonstrated the creative potential of the participants, setting a positive tone for the rest of the program.
The SkillXplore curriculum offers a wide range of tech-focused courses such as Software Development, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Robotics, and Product Management. During the event, representatives from partner organisations like Pluralcode Academy and Unified Scientific and Creative Operations (USCO) gave participants an overview of the program’s practical approach. The teens will apply their learning in real-world scenarios, guided by mentors who will support their development throughout the training.
To ensure participants have access to the necessary resources, each received a laptop donated by Aptech Computer Education. This contribution highlights the importance of partnerships in making the program successful. TWF expressed gratitude to its training partners, emphasising that the collective support of various organisations plays a pivotal role in empowering the teens.
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What’s next for SkillXplore?
The first cohort of the SkillXplore program will undergo a year-long training, culminating in a graduation ceremony where they will present tech projects developed during the course. TWF aims to expand the program beyond tech skills, incorporating additional tracks like fashion, catering, and photography to provide teens with more diverse career options. As applications for the next cohort open soon, the foundation continues its mission to provide equal opportunities for young Nigerians.
TWF invites individuals and organisations to support and partner with them in creating lasting change for the youth of Nigeria. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to equip these teenagers with the skills and confidence to become innovators and leaders in their communities.