Q: Could you share a bit about your initial interest in tech, how you became a software engineer, and your gradual move to ML researcher?
A: I got interested in tech because I wanted to know how things work. In 2007, I created my first email, and that got me curious about how emails really function. I started playing around with programming when I was 14, and that early start helped me become a software engineer. As time passed, I got more fascinated by what machine learning could do. So, I shifted from software engineering to focus on machine learning research—it’s like diving into the deep, interesting world of how computers can learn and make decisions on their own.
Q: Given your experience, how do you perceive job security in the context of the tech-driven era we are in?
A: Job security is different now with technology taking over. If you know stuff like coding and machine learning, you’re in a good spot because these skills are super important. As tech keeps changing how businesses work, people who understand it well have a safer job future. Look at things like Chat-GPT, these big language models helping out in daily work. It’s happening sooner than expected. So, it’s smart to check if your job is still going to be needed in five or ten years. Tech is moving fast, and it’s good to think ahead.
Q: In Africa especially Nigeria, traditional career paths for a secure future often centered around professions like medicine, engineering, or law. How can parents adapt to the changing landscape and guide their children toward opportunities in technology?
A: Parents in Africa, especially in Nigeria, often thought jobs in medicine, engineering, or law were the safest. But things are changing. Jobs in technology now pay well, and people in tech often have more freedom. Tech is everywhere; it’s in everything we do. So, for parents, it’s important to understand this. Tech offers a lot of opportunities. It’s not just about using phones and gadgets; it’s also about creating and understanding how things work. Parents can help by getting their kids interested in tech early, giving them access to learning tools, and encouraging them to explore. Kids already use a lot of technology, but we want to guide them to use it in a positive way, where they can learn and create. Being aware and learning about tech is really important. Projects such as “Young Tech Stars” aim to create such awareness and education for young minds.
Q: You mentioned your project, “Young Tech Stars.” Can you elaborate on the initiative and its goals in nurturing tech skills among young kids and teenagers?
A: “Young Tech Stars” is a passion project aimed at educating and inspiring the younger generation in technology. The goal is to provide accessible and engaging tech education, triggering their creative minds and preparing them for the opportunities of the future.
Q: How do you see initiatives like “Young Tech Stars” contributing to building a foundation for job security and advancement for the younger generation?
A: Initiatives like “Young Tech Stars” lay the groundwork by equipping young minds with essential tech skills early on. This foundation not only prepares them for future job opportunities but also fosters a mindset of innovation and adaptability.
Q: How do you envision the role of mentorship in guiding young minds toward a future in technology, and how can experienced professionals contribute to this mentorship?
A: Having someone to guide you, called a mentor, is super important, especially in tech. In Nigeria, we don’t have many mentors in tech for kids and teens. We heard about people like Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs when we were young. But our kids need heroes from Nigeria who work in tech. Not everyone can be a politician or a music star. We need more people who are really good at tech to show up and inspire our young ones. Experienced professionals can help a lot. They can share what they know, advise on how to choose a career and make a friendly space for young tech lovers. It’s like having a big brother or sister who knows the ropes and can help you find your way. We really need more tech heroes in Nigeria to guide the next generation.
Q: As technology evolves rapidly, what advice do you have for parents and educators in adapting their approach to tech education to keep it relevant and engaging for the younger generation?
A: The main advice for parents and teachers is to be flexible. Use new technologies, show how things work in real life, and make learning fun. The way we teach in schools needs to change too. Right now, we’re teaching kids with old stuff. We need to update so that our graduates are ready for the future. It’s like using an old map in a new city; it just won’t work. Kids and Young Adults need to learn what’s happening now and what will help them in the future.
Q: Considering the global tech landscape, how can nations in Africa strategically position themselves to leverage the potential of their youth in technology for national development?
A: To get the most out of their young people in tech, African countries need a plan. This means putting money into tech education, setting up places for new ideas (we call them innovation hubs), and making rules that help tech grow. If African nations can do this and really see the talent in their young people, they can become leaders in tech. We need to support and reward young tech enthusiasts just like we do with music and reality shows. That way, we’ll unleash their potential.
Q: As a parent and tech advocate, what role do extracurricular activities and hands-on projects play in enhancing a child’s interest and proficiency in technology?
A: Doing fun things outside of regular classes and trying out hands-on projects are super important. They help kids use what they learn in a real way, solve problems, and actually enjoy learning about tech. Kids love playing games on phones, but you know what’s even cooler? Making their own games. In “Young Tech Stars,” we want kids to build things as they learn, so they really understand by doing.
Q: What advice do you have for parents who may be hesitant or unaware of the importance of tech education for their children’s future?
A: I’d say, understand that the world is all about tech now. Teaching your kids about tech is like investing in their future jobs. You don’t have to go big at once—start small, explore tech together, and slowly make it part of their learning. The old idea that only being a doctor meant job security is gone. Let’s get with the times and make sure our kids have a secure future in this new age.
