As part of efforts to revolutionise tech training for the digital future, ALX kick-started the new year with a week-long tech chat (seminar) for current and prospective tech learners at their Costain Hub in Lagos.
The event was a watershed of rich conversations in the digital economy, financial management, and personal development. Resource persons discussed interesting topics and facilitated engaging side chats with the participants.
In her opening comments, Country Growth Manager, ALX Nigeria, Seun Babajide-Duroshola stated that ALX remains committed to empowering youths with tech skills that will transform learners into ethical and entrepreneurial leaders.
She said: ” We are a tech accelerator that seeks to create a new generation of agile digital leaders for the 21st century. We do this by providing our learners with access to the skills and tools they need to build impactful careers in high-growth industries”.
Software Engineering and Job Opportunities
In the same vein, the co-founder, Holberton, Julien Barbier, in a special interactive and fireside chat session with current Software Engineering learners, expressed gratitude to ALX Nigeria for the remarkable impact it is making across Africa. In his lecture, Barbier encouraged young tech enthusiasts to focus on honing their skills and boosting their chances of securing a good job. “The hardest job you need to find is the first one. After that you will always remain valuable,” he said.
He emphasized the power of social networking as he asked participants to interact with one another and optimize the relationships developed virtually and at the hubs. It was an engaging time of intellect as participants asked questions on computer programming, coding languages, and job search tips. He urged participants to continue to improve their skills and volunteer at credible organisations to secure references for future employment.
Set SMART Goals for 2024
In another session, Goal Setting and Vision Boarding Coach, Ife Durosinmi-Etti urged participants to be intentional about writing down their goals before developing strategies to accomplish them. She said some youths blame the government instead of themselves for their poor planning. She engaged the participants in practical goal setting using personalised vision boards. Further, Durosinmi-Etti told them to maintain a strong digital presence, participate in job fairs and join a professional organisation to land their dream jobs.
How To Manage Your Finance
It was a moment of truth for many of the participants as Senior Associate Advisory, Money Africa,
Temilola Adeyemi spoke on building wealth and navigating financial challenges in 2024. She explained that lack of spending discipline causes financial ruin among young people in Nigeria. She listed long-term financial opportunities that offer income and capital gains for young investors.
Other speakers at the seminar were Cloud Computing expert and Senior DevOps Engineer, BigHandLimited, Dara Oladapo; and Co-founder, Holberton, Vincent Karoubi who spoke extensively on software engineering practices.
Enrol for the ALX 2024 Tech Programmes
While unveiling the ALX 2024 programmes, Country Growth Manager, ALX Nigeria, Seun Babajide-
Duroshola stated that partnership with the Mastercard Foundation meant the programmes are at no cost for any African between the ages of 17 and 34 except some of which may require an admin fee. She revealed that the application is now open and urged prospective learners to enrol via www.alxafrica.ng
