Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has announced the launch of an empowerment initiative targeting youth in seven states of the North-West region.
This was confirmed by Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, in a statement issued in Abuja.
The programme, which will focus on a Space-Tech Hackathon and training in Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSAT), is aimed at young people from the states of Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa.
It will take place in Dutse, Jigawa, from April 7 to 11, and will involve start-ups, local innovators, and students from across the region.
Bantam encouraged interested students to register through the NIGCOMSAT Limited website.
She explained that the initiative aims to engage and empower young Nigerians, particularly university students, innovators, and professionals from the North-West, in the field of space technology.
“The objective is to foster innovation and develop creative solutions to real-world challenges through space technology,” she added.
In a similar vein, NIGCOMSAT Limited’s Managing Director, Mrs Jane Egerton-Idehen, confirmed that the programme would span five days.
“The hackathon provides participants with the opportunity to identify challenges, generate ideas, develop prototypes, and receive mentorship using satellite technologies,” she said.
She continued, “The winning team will join the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, where they will have the chance to refine and implement their project further.”
Additionally, 100 youths will be trained in the installation of VSAT systems, which are crucial for providing broadband connectivity in remote areas.
Egerton-Idehen explained that the certification offered will equip participants with technical skills, enhancing their job prospects.
She noted that participants could pursue rewarding careers or entrepreneurial ventures within the ICT sector.
It is worth recalling that a similar hackathon and VSAT training were held in the North-East, specifically in Yola, from February 24 to 28.
“The goal of the SpaceTech Hackathons and VSAT Training initiatives is to inspire innovation, address community challenges, and tackle youth unemployment across the country,” Egerton-Idehen explained.
The North-West Hackathon and VSAT training will be jointly hosted by the state of Jigawa and NIGCOMSAT Limited, she confirmed.