The Ibadan Students Tech Fest 2024, organised by ATC Africa, stood out as an essential development in advancing technology education and promoting innovation among students in Oyo State.
ATC Africa, a community focused on building a better future for Africans in technology, hosted this event which brought together over 400 students from various higher institutions in and around Ibadan.
Among the institutions represented were the University of Ibadan, The Polytechnic Ibadan, City Polytechnic Ibadan, Dominion University, Precious Cornerstone University, Ajayi Crowther University, Koladaisi University, Redeemer’s University, Bolmor Polytechnic, Dominican University, Lead City University, LAUTECH (Ogbomoso), The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic (Saki), Federal Cooperative College, Federal School of Statistics (Ibadan), Sapade Polytechnic (Ogun State), Eruwa Polytechnic, First Technical University, Atiba University, and Alayande College of Education (Oyo).
The theme for this year’s event was “Hacking the Ecosystem: Disruptive for Technology Growth,” powered by ATC Africa and led by Tope James Moses, co-founder of the organisation. The theme reiterated the event’s mission to enable a rich technology ecosystem by supporting young talent and supporting innovation.
The Ibadan Students Tech Fest aimed to demystify technology and provide students with the skills needed to scale through the dynamic tech industry. The event connected students with industry experts, offering insights into emerging technologies and encouraging collaboration to drive innovation.
Tope James Moses emphasised the importance of investing in the next generation, stating, “To cultivate a thriving technology ecosystem, we must invest in our youth. By providing opportunities for upskilling, mentorship, and collaboration, we can equip young talent with the resources they need to drive technological advancements across various fields.”
As young talent matures, they are expected to play an important role in propelling the tech ecosystem forward, contributing to a cycle of growth and creativity. The event highlighted the growing tech culture in Ibadan and beyond, with a strong focus on empowering the youth to shape the future.
The Tech Fest featured a diverse range of speakers and panellists, each providing insights into different sectors of the tech industry. They included Dr Seun Fakorede, R.Eng, MNSE, MASCE, Raheema Abisola Adabanija, MNSE, David Adeleke, Ayomide Fajobi, Adedeji Damilare, Segun Ebenezer, Olaniyan Nurudeen, Abiodun Adesokan, Dr Olusola Ayoola, Ayobami Atolagbe, Oluwaseun Hamzat, Richard Afolabi, Tim Oladoyinbo, Ola Okegbemi, Israel Odeajo, Mosopefoluwa Ayodele, Kausar Moshood, Glory Olaifa and Oluwole Saheed Azeez.
These industry experts provided mentorship and shared their experiences, inspiring students to pursue careers in tech.
Activities and Sessions
The event’s highlights included the Capture the Flag (CTF) competition, which tested participants’ skills in cybersecurity and problem-solving. Networking and professional sessions also allowed students to engage with professionals and peers, ensuring collaboration and career growth.
Added to this, the Serial Interview segment provided an opportunity for students to learn from the experiences of tech professionals, further expanding their knowledge of the industry.
The success of the Ibadan Students Tech Fest 2024 was made possible by the support of various sponsors and partners, including Showmax, Yellow Card, App Tranarc, 1app, Enforca, Gotocourse, Bekkah Artificial Intelligence, Betuptip, Technext, and Techeconomy. Their contributions ensured the event’s smooth execution.
The Ibadan Students Tech Fest 2024 successfully bridged the gap between academia and the tech industry, providing students with the tools they need to drive technological growth in Africa.
