In August 2024, something remarkable happened in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Over seventy teenagers gathered for a four-week technology bootcamp, eager to explore the world of computers, coding, and creativity. For most of them, this was their very first encounter with structured digital education. What they walked away with was far more than technical knowledge—they gained confidence, vision, and the belief that they could play a role in shaping the future.
A Bold Vision in a Small Town
The bootcamp is the brainchild of Ademola Morebise, a nationally recognized technology leader who left Lagos nearly a decade ago to serve the community as a youth corper in Ekiti State. What began as a simple community project during his mandatory one-year youth service grew into a long-term commitment: to empower underserved teenagers with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.
Ademola’s belief is clear: poverty is not just a lack of money, but a lack of productivity. By equipping young people with digital skills, he is helping them unlock productivity, creativity, and income-generating opportunities that can change their lives forever.
What the Bootcamp Offered
The August 2024 edition was structured to introduce participants step-by-step to tech and programming:
- Week 1: The basics of computer use, understanding hardware and software.
- Week 2: HTML and how web pages are built.
- Week 3: CSS and how to design and style those pages.
- Week 4: Hands-on projects where students put everything together.
But it wasn’t just about coding. To sharpen their minds and strengthen problem-solving abilities, every participant also played chess. The combination of coding and chess nurtured both logical reasoning and creativity—two skills essential for success in the digital age.
Success Stories that Inspire
Two stories stand out among the many we recorded:
- Israel’s Journey to Computer Science
Israel had always dreamed of becoming a computer scientist, but he had never even met a professional in the field. Through the bootcamp, he was introduced to real experts and career pathways that made his dream tangible. - Peace’s Path to Software Development
Peace had a simple desire: to build software that makes people’s lives easier. The bootcamp gave her her first steps in coding, fueling her passion and showing her what’s possible.
These young people—and many more like them—are proof that access to the right opportunities can spark lasting transformation.
Overcoming Challenges
The bootcamp wasn’t without hurdles. With 73 students but limited laptops and a small learning space, instructors had to stretch resources creatively. At times, students had to share devices or wait their turn. Despite this, over ten instructors and assistants worked tirelessly to make the program a success.
The result? Every student left with new skills, new confidence, and the excitement of possibility.
Why This Matters
Nigeria has one of the largest youth populations in the world. Yet millions of these young people lack the digital skills required for today’s jobs. Without urgent interventions, they risk being left behind in a world where technology drives opportunity.
This is why initiatives like Ademola Morebise’s bootcamp are so critical. By planting seeds in teenagers today, they are building the workforce, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow.
Looking Ahead
In December 2024, the team will host another edition of the bootcamp, this time focusing on Scratch Programming Language. The goal is to introduce even more teenagers to coding in a fun, interactive, and rewarding way. Medals, prizes, and competitions are being planned to reward hard work and fuel excitement.
With greater support—whether in the form of laptops, funding, or mentorship—this program can scale to reach hundreds more teenagers every year.
A Call to Action
What started as one man’s commitment to a rural community has now grown into a movement. And with the right partners, it can transform not just Ekiti, but the future of Nigeria’s youth.
Together, we can ensure that teenagers like Israel and Peace not only dream, but build.
