A non-governmental organisation, Africado Foundation, has said it is leveraging on Czech Republic’s technological education experience to replicate its Tech in Trenches school programme to underserved communities to bridge digital literacy with the aim of combating unemployment in the country.
According to the NGO, this initiative was part of a broader strategy to bridge the digital literacy gap in Nigeria, equipping young learners with the skills needed to navigate a technology-driven world.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, the Executive Director of Africado Foundation, Mr. Richardson Ojeka, outlined the foundation’s mission to complement government job creation efforts through digital education.
He emphasised that the foundation was focused on equipping the Nigerian youth with essential technological tools to overcome the global challenges of unemployment and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
The inspiration for the initiative stems from the foundation’s recent engagement with the Czech Republic.
Earlier on, 20 young African leaders from 14 countries, including the Executive Director, of Africado Foundation, participated in the Czech government-sponsored study tour of Prague as part of the Czech Republic’s strategic engagement with Africa to share its holistic understanding of the Czech society and its role in global affairs.
The tour showcased the country’s culture and technological advancements with emphasis to adaptive cultures and the importance of integrating technology with innovation to address global challenges.
“The lessons learned from the Czech Republic are invaluable,” Mr. Ojeka explained. “Their approach to technology education is not just about teaching digital skills but fostering innovation to solve real-world problems. This is what we aim to replicate in Nigeria, especially in underserved rural areas.”
Africado Foundation has already made significant strides in promoting digital literacy through its Tech Clubs, established in 21 schools within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
With recent approval to expand to additional schools, the Foundation is set to scale up its impact. These clubs serve as hubs for young learners to engage with technology, develop creative problem-solving skills, and explore potential career paths in the digital space.
“Our Tech Clubs have become a beacon of hope for many students,” Mr. Ojeka said. “Through hands-on activities, mentorship, and innovative Tech projects, we are preparing young people to thrive in the digital age and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
In addition to Tech Clubs, Africado Foundation said it has implemented diverse projects addressing youth empowerment.
It further noted that from malaria outreach programmes to career mentorship initiatives, the foundation has reached thousands of young Nigerians.
Its TechXelerate programme and volunteer development initiatives further underscore its commitment to fostering the next generation of tech innovators and community change makers.
“The foundation’s approach goes beyond merely teaching digital skills. Its programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning and entrepreneurship, equipping students to use technology as a tool for problem-solving and sustainable development.
“Unemployment remains one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges,” Mr. Ojeka noted.