Ministry to host Build-A-Thon holiday camps across 14 states

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE), organisers of the Build-A-Thon initiative, has announced the launch of a holiday camp programme holding in 14 states across Nigeria.

The Ministry says that the Build-A-Thon, starting on August 19, 2024, is more than just a programming initiative as it offers a unique learning experience aimed at fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among secondary school students.

The programme seeks to equip students with essential skills such as the use of Raspberry Pi, embedded systems, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), exposing them to the dynamic world of maker culture to inspire them to become the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow, according to the Ministry.

Leading up to the kickoff of the Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp on August 19, 2024, a day session was designated to ‘Train-the-Trainers’ to prepare them for the programme. Some of the trainers have been selected from the 3 Million Technical Talent program and provided with Raspberry Pi learning kits and content.

This immersive programme is expected to run for two weeks, offering a unique experience for Junior and Senior Secondary School students simultaneously in 14 states across Nigeria. The first edition of the build-a-thon commenced in January in 3 states – Maiduguri, Owerri, and Abeokuta – spanning four days in 150 schools with a total of 1500 young students. Exceptional teams in each location were recognized for their innovative designs, sustainable projects, and utility-driven projects, afterwards three more states: Ogun, Imo and Borno followed.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, Build-A-Thon provides a diverse learning ecosystem including technology labs, DIY boxes, and workshops. Registration for the programme is now open using the b.link/Buildatonholidaycamp link. Participants must be between the ages of 10 and 18 years old.

Although the names of the 14 states were not disclosed, however, the Ministry announced the commencement of the programme in Kano earlier this month,