Innovate North: 150 Youths Hack for Innovation in Kano

Innovate North: empowering Young​ Innovators in Northern nigeria

A recent hackathon‍ in Kano, Nigeria, aimed to ignite the​ entrepreneurial spirit⁤ and digital transformation in the region. The “Innovate ​North” Business Development and Innovation hackathon brought ​together 150 young innovators from across‍ northern Nigeria,fostering collaboration and creativity in the world of technology and business.

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe, convener of the hackathon and founder‍ of Blue sapphire Hub, highlighted the crucial role of mentorship and incubation in nurturing young talent. “Manny young innovators lack mentors or ‌guidance, and ​they need support to transform their ideas ‍into‌ enduring businesses,” she stated. Gwadabe described the event as a vital platform to showcase the⁣ potential‍ of young Nigerians in technology‍ and innovation.

A Competitive Showcase of Skills

Thirty teams, each comprising around five members, competed in this dynamic space.⁣ The participants demonstrated‌ their digital and entrepreneurial‍ prowess, developing ⁢innovative solutions and pitching their ⁢ideas to a panel of ‍experts.

Government Support for Digital Innovation

Yusuf Kofarmata, Commissioner for ​Science, technology,‌ and Innovation ⁣representing Kano ⁣State‌ Governor ⁤Abba Kabir ​Yusuf, reaffirmed the state government’s strong commitment to digital innovation ⁢and⁤ skills ⁤development. He announced aspiring ​plans to empower one million individuals with ICT skills ‍by ⁣the end of the governor’s first⁤ term. Kofarmata emphasized, “It is ⁤inspiring to see⁣ young men ​and women actively‌ engaging‍ in digital innovation.The Kano⁢ State Government‌ is ⁣committed⁢ to supporting and encouraging them, and His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir ‍Yusuf,⁣ is determined to advance the industry within a year.”

He further underlined the economic‌ significance of digital ​skills, urging youth to leverage technology for income generation and‍ contribute to the​ growth of both Kano and Nigeria.

“Before the end of‌ this ⁣tenure,we aim ‍to ‍equip one million people‌ with digital skills that ​will enable ‍them to generate income and⁢ contribute to the development of Kano⁢ and Nigeria‌ at large,”⁤ kofarmata concluded.

embrace the Future of ​Innovation

The “Innovate North” hackathon serves as a​ powerful⁢ testament to the burgeoning⁤ entrepreneurial spirit in northern ⁣Nigeria.​ With government support, mentorship​ programs, and opportunities for ​collaboration, ​young​ innovators are poised to ⁢drive⁣ digital transformation and contribute to a more ⁤prosperous future for the ⁢region.

What steps can individuals, communities, and organizations‌ take to further ⁢empower​ young innovators in Northern Nigeria?

Innovate North: Empowering Young ⁢Innovators in northern Nigeria – ⁤An Interview with ‍Maryam Lawan gwadabe

An Interview with Maryam Lawan Gwadabe

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe, the convener ⁣of the “Innovate North” Business Advancement and Innovation Hackathon and founder of Blue Sapphire Hub, joins us to discuss the event’s impact on young innovators ​in Northern Nigeria.

Archyde: Maryam, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. The “Innovate North” hackathon clearly generated‍ a lot of excitement. What‌ inspired you to organize this event?

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe: Thank‍ you for having me. The inspiration ​stems from a deep ⁢belief in the potential of young Nigerians, particularly those in the North. I see a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit waiting to be unleashed, but ‌often lacking the necessary guidance and support. “Innovate North” was designed to bridge that gap, providing a platform for these talented individuals to showcase their skills, collaborate,​ and learn from experienced mentors.

Archyde: What were some of the highlights of the hackathon?‍

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe: Seeing 150 young innovators from across Northern Nigeria come together was incredibly inspiring. ‍ The energy and creativity in the room were palpable. Thirty teams, each with ⁢diverse skill sets, tackled challenging problems, developing innovative solutions that addressed real-world issues. The⁣ pitching session was particularly ⁤impressive, showcasing the passion and commitment of ⁣these aspiring entrepreneurs.

Archyde: Mentorship and​ incubation are crucial‍ for nurturing young talent. How‍ did “Innovate North”‍ integrate these aspects?

Maryam Lawan ⁢Gwadabe: We recognized that mentorship is ​essential for transforming ideas into successful ventures. We carefully curated a panel of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts who ⁢provided ​invaluable guidance and feedback to the participants⁣ throughout the hackathon. Additionally, we aim to establish ​a mentorship program beyond the event, connecting participants with ongoing support.

Archyde: Yusuf Kofarmata, Kano ⁤State Commissioner for Science, Technology, and​ Innovation, spoke about the government’s commitment to digital skills development. How do initiatives like “Innovate North” align with this ⁢vision?

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe: It’s incredibly encouraging to see the Kano State Government’s strong commitment to digital innovation.Events like “Innovate North” are ⁤instrumental in ‍achieving ‌their goals. By⁢ providing a platform for skill-building, collaboration, and idea generation, we’re empowering ⁣young⁣ people to become active participants ‌in the digital economy, driving growth and creating opportunities.

Archyde: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of innovation in Northern nigeria?

Maryam Lawan Gwadabe: ⁣ My vision is for Northern Nigeria to become a ‍hub of innovation, known for⁣ its creative solutions and entrepreneurial spirit. I beleive “Innovate North” is just the beginning. Through continued investment ‌in education, mentorship,‍ and infrastructure, we can‍ unlock the immense potential of young innovators, ​transforming the region and contributing to Nigeria’s overall progress.

Question for our readers: What steps can individuals, communities, and organizations take to⁤ further empower ‌young‌ innovators in Northern Nigeria?