Code Zone 2024 Promotes Diversity and Inclusion Among Young Tech Enthusiasts

Code Zone 2024 Promotes Diversity and Inclusion Among Young Tech Enthusiasts

L-R:  Juliet Ogujiofor, Administrator; Olufunke Akinloye, Founder, Code Zone; Faith Praise, Coordinator; Titus Kachi, Class Instructor at the closing presentation of Code Zone 2024

*Lagos, Nigeria* — The 6th edition of Code Zone, an annual coding bootcamp aimed at equipping teens and preteens with critical tech skills, concluded successfully in Lagos. This year’s event, themed “Diversity & Inclusion,” attracted a diverse group of participants aged 10 to 18, who spent 30 days engaging in hands-on training in various areas such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Data Analytics, and UI/UX design.

Code Zone 2024 emphasized creating an inclusive learning environment, where participants not only developed technical skills but also embraced problem-solving, critical thinking, and digital creativity. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, the program highlighted how technology can bridge gaps, address real-world challenges, and bring people together.

“Our goal this year was to build technical competence while raising awareness of social issues like diversity,” said Mrs. Olufunke Akinloye, Founder of Code Zone. “We wanted to encourage the youth to appreciate the value of diversity and have a positive disposition toward others, especially those who are different from them.”

In a special segment, the program focused on individuals living with disabilities, particularly those with Autism. Mrs. Ifueko Karibi-Whyte, Founder of the Autism Mothers in Nigeria Foundation, delivered a session that educated participants on Autism and how to interact with people on the spectrum. “Everyone is different. Be kind and helpful when you see people living with disabilities,” Ifueko urged.

Throughout the program, participants worked closely with tech professionals, completing individual projects designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. These projects were showcased during a final-day presentation, drawing praise from parents and organizers alike.

One parent, Mrs. Olabisi Bakare, expressed her appreciation for the initiative, noting how her daughter, who had little knowledge of coding before the bootcamp, made remarkable progress. Mr. Bayo Olabisi, another parent with two children in the program, commended the participants' impressive presentations and encouraged them to build on the skills they acquired to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving tech world.

As Code Zone continues to grow, the organizers are committed to expanding the program’s reach, ensuring that more young people gain access to technology education. Plans for the next edition are already underway, with a new theme designed to inspire even more creativity and innovation among young learners.

For more information about Code Zone and upcoming programs, contact info@emeraldzone.com.ng.