NIGCOMSAT Limited has launched a youth empowerment initiative in Nigeria’s North-West, featuring a Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT training from April 7 to 11 in Dutse. The program aims to enhance technology skills and broadband access, with mentorship and support for participants. The initiative targets university students, start-ups, and local innovators and strives to inspire innovation and reduce youth unemployment.
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has launched a youth empowerment initiative targeting the North-West region of Nigeria. This program aims to provide participants with advanced technological skills while enhancing broadband access in remote areas. The initiative will include a Space-Tech Hackathon and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) training, scheduled from April 7 to 11 in Dutse, Jigawa.
According to Aisha Bantam, NIGCOMSAT’s Head of Corporate Affairs, the program invites university students, start-ups, and local innovators from states such as Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa. Interested individuals can register through the official link: https://bit.ly/VSAT_JIGAWA.
Previously, NIGCOMSAT organized a similar program in the North-East, hosting a regional Space-Tech Hackathon in Yola, Adamawa State, from February 24 to 28. This event was co-hosted with the Adamawa State Government, emphasizing grassroots innovations in satellite technology aimed at fostering economic and social impact.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, stated that the five-day event would encompass mentorship and hands-on experience in satellite technology. She noted, “The hackathon provides participants with a platform to identify challenges, generate ideas, develop prototypes, and receive expert mentorship.”
The winning team from this hackathon will gain enrollment in the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, receiving additional support to refine and implement their projects. Furthermore, 100 youths will be offered specialized training in VSAT installation, a critical technology for broadening broadband access in underserved communities.
Egerton-Idehen emphasized that the primary aim of the initiative is to inspire technological innovation, address community challenges, and combat youth unemployment across Nigeria. She confirmed that the North-West Hackathon and VSAT training will be co-hosted by Jigawa State and NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
In conclusion, NIGCOMSAT’s initiative represents a significant step towards bolstering technological expertise among Nigerian youth while improving broadband access in the North-West region. By providing mentorship and training opportunities, it aims to drive innovation and tackle pressing community issues, ultimately contributing to the reduction of youth unemployment in the country.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
