Young people in Ikola Odunsi, Alimosho area of Lagos State have shared their experiences from the recently concluded one-month TechTrek Bootcamp programme organised by First E&P Development Company and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Joint Venture IMPACT First Project.
The month-long tech camp, held at a funded innovation hub, trained more than 30 pupils aged nine to 17 in various digital skills, including graphic design, digital literacy, online safety, and Artificial Intelligence concepts such as creative media, photography, video editing, content creation, career chats, and guest talks.
During the Bootcamp, which ran from August 4 to 29, participants were introduced to both text-based and block-based programming languages, including Python, HTML, CSS, and Scratch. They were also encouraged to think critically and develop problem-solving skills.
“Other highlights of the TechTrek Bootcamp included sessions on digital literacy, online safety, introduction to Excel, Artificial Intelligence, and the art of using social media covering online ethics,” said Joshua Chidumaga, a 13-year-old JSS 2 student.
He explained that he benefited greatly from learning how to create games and design with computers, use Excel for calculations, solve problems with PowerPoint, stay safe online, and understand digital footprints.
Obadore Oluwatomisi, a 13-year-old SS1 student, shared that he learnt about HTML, CSS, and the Python programming language, which he can now use to solve complex equations. “I wish it never ended,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Street2School Initiative expressed appreciation to First E&P Development Company and the NNPC Joint Venture IMPACT First Project for establishing an innovation hub that promotes digital education among young people.
Oluwatosin Olowoyeye-Taiwo, founder of Street2School Initiative, emphasised the importance of the TechTrek2025 Bootcamp in providing access to digital skills, creativity, and problem-solving tools essential in today’s world. She described coding as not just a technical skill but “a 21st-century language of innovation that must be harnessed, especially by children from underserved communities who often lack such opportunities.”
The initiative partnered with reputable IT companies such as InfoLab Technologies and AccompliTech, whose seasoned facilitators anchored the training.
Olowoyeye-Taiwo added that a special highlight of the programme was a fun day at the Upbeat Recreation Centre in Lekki, hosted by URAGA Real Estate. For many of the children, it was their first time visiting such a facility. “It was indeed a refreshing break our learners needed after an intensive month of coding as the children had so much fun with a lasting memorable experience,” she said.
Oyebisi David-Oluwaseun, an instructor from InfoLab Technologies Limited who taught Python Scratch programming, Web3, and digital applications, commended the Street2School Initiative for bringing in instructors from various IT fields to impact young learners. He noted their impressive performance in computer-based assessments.
Photo: Participants. Caption: Participants
