On Thursday, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy announced the start of applications for teaching positions through its Build-A-Thon initiative programme.
The Build-A-Thon initiative, launched earlier in December, is a visionary program aimed at equipping senior secondary students with essential skills in innovation, digital literacy, and technology. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of the government, which is to nurture a technologically adept generation that can contribute meaningfully to the digital economy. As part of this initiative, the federal government is set to recruit teachers who will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience of students participating in the program.
The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, highlighted that one of the primary objectives of the Build-A-Thon initiative is to promote early-technology adoption among senior secondary students. Recognizing the rapid pace of technological advancements, the program aims to bridge the digital divide by providing students with hands-on experience and knowledge in emerging technologies. By doing so, it sets the stage for a generation of young minds ready to embrace and contribute to the digital revolution.
The initiation of teacher recruitment for the Build-A-Thon initiative is a strategic step towards ensuring the program’s success. Teachers play a central role in shaping students’ learning experiences and fostering a passion for innovation. The recruitment process aims to identify educators with a strong background in technology, innovation, and digital literacy. These educators will not only impart knowledge but also serve as mentors, guiding students through the intricacies of the digital landscape.
The Build-A-Thon initiative is set to kick off with a four-day program in January 2024. During this immersive experience, 1,500 senior secondary students will have the opportunity to delve into the world of innovation and technology under the guidance of the recruited teachers. The program’s structure is designed to be dynamic, incorporating workshops, hands-on projects, and interactive sessions that encourage collaborative problem-solving and critical thinking.
According to the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, the programme, which was launched earlier in December, will promote early technology adoption among senior secondary students.
The programme will last four days in January 2024 and will involve 1,500 students from 150 schools in three cities: Owerri, Maiduguri, and Abeokuta.
The ministry issued a call for applications from prospective teachers on X.
The ministry added that the right candidates should be visionary educators, teachers, and enthusiasts who would be able to guide the next generation of tech innovators in secondary schools.
Interested and qualified candidates are to apply on the programme’s website.
Commenting on the launch of the programme recently, the minister said, “The Build-A-Thon initiative is part of our strategic plan to promote early-technology adoption to shape tomorrow’s innovation leaders.”
He added that the overall goal of the program includes showcasing innovative projects, recognising achievements, fostering future collaboration, inspiring future leaders, and promoting lifelong learning.
The initiation of teacher recruitment for the Build-A-Thon initiative marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards creating a digitally literate and innovative generation. As the program unfolds in January 2024, it holds the promise of not only equipping students with essential skills but also transforming the educational landscape. By investing in teachers who will serve as guides and mentors, the federal government underscores its commitment to laying the foundation for a future where technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for progress and empowerment. The Build-A-Thon initiative stands as a beacon, illuminating the path towards a more technologically advanced and digitally inclusive Nigeria.
