NIGCOMSAT Limited has launched a youth empowerment initiative in North-West Nigeria to enhance technological skills and broadband access. The programme features a Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT training from April 7 to 11 in Dutse, targeting university students and local innovators. The initiative includes mentorship and specialized training for 100 youths, aimed at reducing unemployment and fostering innovation.
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has announced a youth empowerment initiative specifically designed for the North-West region of Nigeria. This program aims to enhance participants’ technological skills while improving broadband access in remote areas. The initiative includes a Space-Tech Hackathon and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) training, which will take place in Dutse, Jigawa, from April 7 to 11.
Aisha Bantam, NIGCOMSAT’s Head of Corporate Affairs, emphasized that the program targets university students, start-ups, and local innovators from states such as Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa. Interested candidates can register through the official link provided: https://bit.ly/VSAT_JIGAWA.
NIGCOMSAT previously held a regional Space-Tech Hackathon in Yola, Adamawa State, from February 24 to 28. This earlier event, co-hosted with the Adamawa State Government, aimed at fostering grassroots innovation in satellite technology and encouraging economic and social progress.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, indicated that participants in the five-day event will benefit from mentorship and hands-on experience in satellite technology. She stated, “The hackathon provides participants with a platform to identify challenges, generate ideas, develop prototypes, and receive expert mentorship.”
Additionally, Egerton-Idehen announced that the winning team from the hackathon will be enrolled in the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, offering further support for project development. Beyond the hackathon, 100 youths will also receive specialized training in VSAT installation, essential for expanding broadband access in underserved communities.
Egerton-Idehen reiterated that the initiative seeks to inspire technological innovation, address community challenges, and mitigate youth unemployment across Nigeria. The North-West Hackathon and VSAT training are set to be co-hosted by Jigawa State and NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
In conclusion, NIGCOMSAT’s initiative aims to empower the youth in Nigeria’s North-West region by enhancing technological skills and improving broadband access. The Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT training not only promote innovation and mentorship but also provide practical solutions to community challenges. This initiative, alongside previous events in the North-East, reflects a commitment to tackling youth unemployment and fostering economic development through technology.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
