With rapid advancement in data science and technology across the world, it has become imperative for Nigerian children to develop capacity, knowledge and skills needed to compete in these fields to be able to cope with development needs of both now and the future.
   
Critical stakeholders have a role to play by guiding the younger generations, getting them prepared through investment in technological education to meet the challenges and opportunities the trend presents. Nigerian children need education in data science and technology to develop and make the nation more prosperous in the future.
   
Data science training should be incorporated into the school curriculum and made accessible to all Nigerian children. The government should also provide incentives for organisations to invest in children’s data science training and development towards creating a pool of highly skilled professionals for development.

   
Essentially, a child’s early education plays a significant role in shaping intellectual development, especially in data science and technology, which teaches concepts on children analytical skills, problem-solving skills and critical thinking. Developing strong foundations in these areas will enable the children to navigate the digital age with greater ease.
   
Partnerships between stakeholders and educational institutions can help fund the development of data science and technology programmes for younger generations. Students can be guided and inspired through mentorship programmes, with professionals in the fields, providing guidance.
   
Furthermore, stakeholders can support initiatives that enable children to develop skills in these fields by providing access to technology resources, through coding camps and workshops. Strong foundation in these areas will prepare Nigerian children for the digital age and foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. It is worthy to note that decisions are now influenced by technology and data, which drive global economic growth; hence, children will have a better chance of competing globally if data science is introduced to them at an early age.
   
To expand its economy, Nigeria needs to take advantage of these opportunities as the digital age requires countries to become globally competitive to grow economically, locally and remain competitive internationally. Nigeria can become a leading international player by expanding its economic sector by investing in data science and technology for the children, who are often described as the leaders of tomorrow.
   
By exploring these fields and thinking outside the box, children can come up with innovative solutions to societal and environmental problems. For a country to grow, it must be able to deal with unique challenges and innovate. Education in data science and technology significantly contributes to economic development, providing children with opportunities to explore these fields can help them become problem solvers, and people who find solutions to problems creatively. Such investment will also enhance growth, attract investment, and accelerate economic development by positioning a nation as an innovative hub in the comity of nations.
    
Regrettably, digital technology and resources are not equally accessible in Nigeria but when children are educated about data science and technology at an early age, they can benefit from learning about it regardless of their socio-economic status.
    
As the job market continues to witness unprecedented transformation driven by advances in industrial technology and data-driven insights, the government can reduce unemployment and improve economic growth by exposing young Nigerians to technology and data science earlier in life. Government’s programmes should be created to encourage data science education and encourage students to enroll for technology-related courses. No doubt, this will increase employment opportunities in technology and data science.
   
Technology and data science offers a wide variety of job opportunities. These include becoming a data analyst, data scientist, software developers, and machine learning engineers. The growing demand for professionals with skills in technology and data science will result in even more career advancement opportunities for young Nigerians.
   
Developing expertise in these fields increases the likelihood that young learners will develop new products, services, and businesses, which ultimately leads to job creation and economic growth. For instance, a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs can have a significant impact on the economy because of the large and youthful population. Tech-savvy entrepreneurs can drive innovation and job creation as a result of the growing and young population. This makes Nigeria a perfect place for tech firms, startups, and businesses to take advantage of the power of technology and data science.
   
Early data science and technology education for Nigerian children is a strategic imperative that can transform the nation’s socio-economic landscape because Nigeria needs skilled, innovative and technologically literate individuals to grow, and develop.

Huge investments in these fields will consolidate Nigeria’s position as a global leader in the digital economy, stimulate long-term economic growth and improve social conditions of the people.
Odume is the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Blink Tech Solutions.