Over 40 young Nigerians have graduated after receiving training in programming, artificial intelligence, and data analysis.
The students, drawn from schools in Lagos and Ibadan, Oyo State, were also presented with laptop computers at the foundation’s fourth graduation ceremony themed “Empowering Nigerian Tech Future, One Young Mind at a Time.”
Addressing the graduands, the Founder , Yomi Denzel Olaniyi, described the programme as a launchpad for greater opportunities.
He said the initiative was designed to help young people transform their lives through technology, drawing inspiration from his father’s struggle to access education.
“This foundation is not meant to be the end. The certification is not. It’s the start. This is like a stepping stone to where you want to go in the future,” he said.
“That’s why we are doing it. We really believe that you can build a better future for you, your family, and your future family,” he added.
Mr Olaniyi urged the graduands to embrace opportunities in artificial intelligence, noting that the global tech landscape is rapidly evolving.
A total of 40 certificates were awarded for Python programming and 25 for DataCamp training, while beneficiaries who completed both programmes received laptop computers.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of the foundation, Mrs Temitope Oluwatukesi, said the initiative was aimed at equipping young people, particularly school leavers, with digital skills for financial independence.
“That experience inspired a lifelong vision to raise an army of financially independent young people who will build a strong foundation for an economically empowered Nigeria through technological skill development,” she said.
She added that the foundation has, over the past four years, empowered young Nigerians across different states with practical tech skills and economic opportunities.
In a keynote address, the founder’s father, Professor Ronald Olaniyi, paid tribute to his son, describing him as a quiet force making meaningful impact in society.
Some of the graduands, including Wonderment Adebayo, Olawoye Rasheed and Tokode Greatness, expressed appreciation to the foundation, Yomi Denzel Foundation, for the opportunity, noting that the programme had transformed their outlook and skills.
Highlights of the event included project presentations and the formal presentation of certificates to the graduands.
Reporting By Victor Okiche