A graduate of Pure and Applied Mathematics from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akinyele Olubodun, through his Access for Youths to Information Technology Initiate (AYITI), has trained 10 vulnerable children in computer programming.
According to a statement, they all graduated on Saturday. The training, tagged ‘AYITI 4.0’, was to facilitate ethical computer programming for social impact and prepare the trainees for immediate employment opportunities. AYITI is a training programme dedicated to nurturing vulnerable children into ethical and skilled technology creators.
In attendance was the guest speaker, Babatope Olosunde, a Senior IT Project Manager, Cybersecurity Specialist and Independent Researcher, who flew in from the United Kingdom.
He encouraged the trainees to use their skills to drive positive changes.
According to him, “Through the expansions of AYITI, the founder has not only aimed to provide technical skills but also foster a mindset of problem-solving, creativity, and innovation.
“The goal is to prepare these young minds not just for immediate job opportunities but for a lifelong journey in technology, where they can contribute to and lead in the digital transformation of Nigeria and beyond.”
In his address, a cybersecurity expert, Abidemi Daniel Abogunrin, spoke about the importance of resilience, ethics, and responsibility in the digital space.
Earlier in his address, Akinyele expressed joy and pride in the pupils’ journey. “All graduates will receive five years of ongoing mentorship to support them through the next phase of their journey,” he said.
Akinyele also shared his plans to launch a masterclass for AYITI alumni to ensure continuous learning beyond the programme. However, he highlighted a recurring challenge: many children begin the journey but are unable to complete it, not due to a lack of interest or learning ability, but because of financial and social barriers. He noted that while AYITI’s resources remain limited, the vision for the subsequent training is more ambitious.
He extended sincere appreciation to the volunteers whose dedication powered the success of the programme: Ologunde Elisha, Opeyemi Ibrahim, Victor Segun, Adedayo Moshood, Rade Oseni, and Layo Salami. Ibrahim, a volunteer tutor, admonished the trainees to do the right thing with what they’ve learned, even when no one is watching.
AYITI is a youth development initiative focused on programming for social change. Through a 52-week programme, it provides vulnerable children with free training in computer programming, data analytics, and electronics, alongside mentorship and character development.
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