The Olusegun Coding Class, led by Co-Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of SR IPD Logistics Company, Mr. Olusegun Idowu, is making a strong case for the importance of coding skills in shaping the global competitiveness of children.
During the recent graduation ceremony of 150 students who completed the intensive 10-day Olusegun Coding 2.0 robotics school in Lagos State’s Obalende Local Council Development Area, Mr. Olusegun Idowu emphasized the transformative power of coding skills.
The participants, all schoolchildren, underwent comprehensive training in a range of computer-related skills. This training included web development, robotics, game development, graphics design, scratch programming, artificial intelligence, and computer coding. The collaborative effort between Olusegun Coding Class and Fosters Private Schools in Lagos made this initiative possible.
Mr. Idowu encouraged the graduates to remain dedicated to the skills they had acquired. He stated that, “The coding initiative is a means of using education to reduce poverty and unemployment because when the children have these skills, it will enable them to be competitive globally. They will have the skills to work remotely against crime, and that’s the essence of Olusegun Coding Class.”
He further highlighted the success of the program, mentioning that last year’s edition had 120 participants, and the impact was significant. The return of last year’s winner, who confidently showcased his knowledge of website development, robotics, and AI, underscored the effectiveness of the program.
Mr. Idowu also urged the government to consider introducing coding into public school curricula and providing IT training for public school teachers, ensuring that learners across the country have access to these valuable skills.
Mr. Patrick Foster, Director of Fosters Private Schools in Lagos, revealed that over 500 children applied for the training, but only 150 successfully passed the entrance examination, emphasizing the high demand for such programs.
Representing the Deputy Governor of Lagos, Mr. Obafemi Hamzat, Mr. Wasiu Jimoh emphasized the importance of technology for the future and the potential of children. He acknowledged that two weeks of training cannot cover all aspects of these skills but can serve as a catalyst to stimulate interest in this dynamic field, which offers numerous benefits.
