Empowering young tech enthusiasts to drive the transformation of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem - Joshua's Changemaker Journey

Changemaker Journey  

An avid IT enthusiast, Joshua has always been passionate about technology. Immersing himself in all things tech-related and honing his digital skills at an exceptionally young age, Joshua whet his appetite for IT at any and every opportunity he could get.  

However, over time, he observed that — for many young Nigerians — access to digital and IT skills learning programs often proved limited. The vast majority of young people he came across — despite their interest in IT and STEM-related courses — faced considerable barriers to exploring learning, development and career opportunities in these fields. 

This, he noted, was largely due to a lack of income. Resolved to address this issue, he set about pioneering accessible solutions with the potential to change lives.  

TechPlug IT Academy 

Joshua launched TechPlug IT Academy to bridge the digital gap by providing free or low-cost high-quality tech and STEM classes to underserved communities. The organization aims to democratize IT and tech by making it available to everyone — no matter their background.  

To accomplish this, Joshua has outlined a novel strategy in which the organization sets about “adopting” schools and causes, with this philosophy of “adoption” speaking to TechPlug IT Academy's core values of care, empathy, and taking responsibility for the people they serve. 

As part of its mission to effect positive change, the organization takes a three-phase approach to improving digital literacy and expanding STEM accessibility. Firstly, TechPlug IT Academy engages with private and public schools across the country, partnering with them to upskill students and inspire them to transform their communities. 

Secondly, the organization collaborates with large corporations, such as banks and telecommunications companies, to “adopt” schools — in TechPlug IT Academy fashion — and positively impact an even wider network of students.  

Thirdly, TechPlug IT Academy joins forces with like-minded NGOs to transform even more lives. Case in point, the organization has partnered with a prison rehabilitation NGO in Nigeria to empower prisoners to gain new skills and lower recidivism rates. 

All in all, Joshua and his team have been a driving force for good and continue to accelerate the digital transformation of Nigerian society through their ongoing efforts and wide-ranging initiatives.  

An Everyone a Changemaker World   

As with any undertaking, finding the motivation or confidence to take the first step on your changemaker journey can prove incredibly difficult, if not daunting. As the founder of TechPlug ITAcademy, Joshua understands this better than most. Still, he insists, “the important thing is to just start.” 

“Everyone has an idea,” he says. “Everyone has a skill. Start — today — by finding a problem you can solve.”