The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) recently commemorated the one-year anniversary of the NITDA AI Developers Training (NAIDT) programme, a pioneering initiative established to cultivate the proficiency of young Nigerians in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Initially launched as the NITDA Developers Group (NDG) Training, this program has rapidly evolved into a pivotal platform for fostering the growth and impact of AI within the country.
From its inception, the NAIDT programme has been committed to accelerating the capacities of Nigerian youth in AI, responding to the increasing demand for tech talent in this dynamic field.
With the generous support of volunteers from the Google Developers Group (GDG), NITDA has successfully empowered numerous young individuals, equipping them with the necessary skills to embark on a transformative journey that not only enhances their personal lives but also positively influences the broader society.
The ethos of NAIDT is rooted in the NITDA philosophy of “Learn, Teach, and Earn,” which has facilitated the transition of program graduates into the role of instructors, thus perpetuating a cycle of knowledge transfer and financial empowerment.
Former participants have seamlessly transitioned into mentoring roles, nurturing the next generation of tech enthusiasts while bolstering their financial independence through the program.
As NAIDT celebrates its one-year milestone, notable achievements have emerged, with participants venturing into the establishment of their innovation-driven startups such as ElonosiaAI, FundusAI, and Gyronics, among others.
Several program graduates have also secured positions as tech ambassadors for renowned organizations like Microsoft, while others have channeled their expertise into rendering services for foreign enterprises while residing in Nigeria.
Over the course of its operation, NAIDT has conducted 12 cohorts, training a total of 2,785 individuals from diverse backgrounds, including NYSC corps members, graduates, secondary school students, and artisans.
The comprehensive curriculum covers essential aspects of AI, including machine learning, data analytics, and other pertinent areas such as natural language processing (NLP). Moreover, the utilization of AI tools, including ChatGPT, to harness large language models is a key component of the training regimen.
During the NAIDT at One celebration, Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, extended congratulations to all beneficiaries and pledged the agency’s commitment to supporting the success of startups emerging from the program.
He also expressed gratitude to the GDG for their unwavering dedication in ensuring the program’s triumph.
However, the DG expressed concern over the low participation of females, which currently stands at less than 10%. He urged the GDG to redress this gender imbalance by implementing innovative strategies, such as tailored AI training programs for women and other emerging technologies.
