Our recent trip to Lagos, Nigeria, with the Digital Explorers project broadened our perspectives and helped us establish valuable connections. Our team from Tallinn University, including Priit Tammets (DTI), Ingrid Hinojosa (Academic Affairs Office), and Matti Rossi (School of Educational Sciences), joined this initiative facilitated by the OSMOS & Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) to connect with young ICT talents in Nigeria and build networks with local universities and organizations.
During the Digital Explorers student selection seminar, Ingrid Hinojosa conducted a communication and cultural adaptation workshop to prepare students for international experiences. The participants were eager and ready to embark on new journeys, showcasing the potential of Nigeria’s youth.
We engaged with innovative project leaders and university representatives, exploring creative methods to implement ICT training in educational institutions. Discussions focused on enhancing teacher training and integrating ICT learning into school curriculums. Notably, we met with David Ogebe and Glory Olamigoke, who are pioneering youth projects in ICT education.
Our visit included stops at the University of Lagos and YABA College of Technology. At these institutions, we discussed student exchange programs, online courses, and teacher training initiatives. A tour of the Unilag Consult, NitHub, and the Business School provided insights into the Nigerian education landscape. The importance of raising ICT skills among youth and upskilling teachers in technology and engineering was emphasized, highlighting potential areas for collaboration.
The discussions on bridging the skill gap in the tech industry were eye-opening. Both the private and public sectors play crucial roles in implementing sustainable interventions. At TechUnlock Nigeria, efforts are underway to multiply skilled tech talents through free and subsidized training programs for youths. The collaboration aims to achieve economic development by addressing the skill gap.
Special thanks to the Digital Explorers project team from Lithuania, OSMOS, ESTDEV (Berk Erdem) for making these connections possible. The support and hard work of our partners made this trip successful and impactful.
The vibrant and skilled youth and booming tech scene in Nigeria provided valuable insights. We anticipate positive outcomes from these discussions on global education issues, particularly those focusing on Nigeria. The experience broadened our perspectives through new connections and challenges, and we see potential for ongoing exchanges and the development of meaningful projects in the fields of STEM and STEAM learning, educational technology, curriculum development, and scientific collaboration.
This journey to Nigeria has indeed been a memorable one, full of learning and promising opportunities. We are excited about the future collaborations and the positive impact they will bring.