Modupe Gbadeyanka
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
As part of efforts to meet the target of equipping one million technical talents with the requisite knowledge to excel in the industry, Moniepoint has sponsored the training of the pioneer cohort of the HatchDev programme.
The HatchDev initiative is the brainchild of Nithub University of Lagos, designed to produce hundreds of market-ready software engineers every year.
The scheme, which runs for nine months and started in October 2022, aspires to shape 300 junior software engineers, 100 intelligent systems developers, and 100 IoT/embedded systems engineers.
The first beneficiaries have been trained to be readily absorbed into a market eager for their expertise after the completion of a three-month industry-specific internship.
Speaking on the success of the initiative, the VP of Engineering at Moniepoint, Mr Chukwudum Ekwueme, said, “Nigeria is a booming economy and with the innovative contributions of tech businesses, like Moniepoint, that are solving some of society’s critical issues, it is very gratifying to be a significant part of those giving local talent the training and tools they need to compete on a global stage.
“Also, this initiative aligns perfectly with our vision of empowering the next generation of tech leaders. We believe that by investing in talent development, we can accelerate Nigeria’s growth in the digital economy and contribute to the overall prosperity of our great nation.”
Also commenting, NitHub Director and HatchDev project lead, Mr Victor Odumuyiwa, said, “Nigeria is at a critical inflexion point at the moment as we continue to grow and develop our economy.
“As a new wave of technology companies emerge, and with increased digitalisation in every aspect of life, it’s vital that we have the local talent available here to ensure homegrown businesses can reach their full potential.
“That’s why courses like HatchDev are so valuable – we’re training Nigeria’s top future talent. We’re delighted to be working with Moniepoint to help bring this vision to life.”
Recall that the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, said the government would endeavour to create two million digital jobs.
The digital economy is rapidly expanding in Nigeria, though there is a pressing need for skilled tech talent because, according to estimates, there are only around 115,000 developers in Nigeria.
NItHub envisions a transformative approach to the use and creation of digital technology in Nigeria.
Moniepoint, with its extensive reach and influence, plays a pivotal role in this digital revolution and financial inclusion.
Currently, 1.6 million businesses across Nigeria rely on Moniepoint’s suite of payment, credit, and business management tools to achieve socio-economic growth and stability. The platform facilitates an average monthly transaction value of $12 billion, demonstrating its profound impact on businesses and the economy at large.
