I want to empower emerging generation with tech skills — Yakubu

Nasirudeen B. Yakubu is the Managing Partner/CEO of 3logy Limited, an emerging technologies company. In this interview with Daily Trust, he shares his perspective on the need to empower young minds with digital technology skills and how artificial intelligence is playing a critical role in Nigeria’s digital economy.

Why did you set up 3logy and what’s your specific target?

    We founded 3logy to offer hope to tech-savvy Africans who feel the tech industry is inaccessible. Our focus is on empowering the emerging generation to master the language of the future in a digitally-driven economy.

 How do you recruit kids and how do you cater for their welfare?

We typically provide training to children in various fields. When children demonstrate outstanding abilities, we assign them tasks to perform and receive payment through their parents.

Children naturally gravitate towards playful and social activities. Gamifying the learning experience is an effective method for teaching them complex technological concepts. Additionally, implementing procedures to safeguard children from cyberbullying is essential.

How’s the nature of your training?

Our training process involves a blend of service learning and creative thinking, aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of emerging technologies. It is primarily hybrid, with 70% virtual and 30% physical components.

You recently won the award for emerging firm of the year, how do you feel?

    Yes, it is a recognition of our global impact and potential in shaping the future of the emerging generation. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished so far and excited to continue mentoring more.

 How do you perceive AI in today’s world?

Overall, AI has the potential to bring about significant benefits and advancements, but it also poses challenges and risks that need to be carefully managed.

What is unique about 3logy?

We train kids of between ages 6-17, we mentor them and expose them to emerging markets. As we all know, we live in the time of constant change, especially in terms of technology. Change that replaces the way we do everything. As technology replaces any job where work can be automated, our kids need to be imparted with adequate skills from a very young age.

 Where do you see 3logy in the next 5yrs?

 The firm may continue to form strategic partnerships and collaborations with other companies, startups, research institutions, and government agencies. This could help drive innovation. A leader in bridging the gap between children and youth, we believe in catching them young.

Do you have any ongoing projects at the moment?

Certainly! “Inventor in every home project” initiative aims to encourage children to focus on mastering one emerging technology, fostering their ability to invent solutions that benefit humanity.

What’s your advice to the government on harnessing technology in driving growth?

Governments must lead the way in adopting digital transformation for public services. Collaborating with industry and academia is crucial for driving technological innovation and growth. Public-private partnerships are essential for facilitating knowledge sharing.