Kwara Tech Startups

The Kwara Tech Startups government has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting tech startups and young entrepreneurs, emphasizing its goal of creating a thriving technology ecosystem in the state. This commitment was highlighted during the closing ceremony of the seventh edition of the Kwarabuild Tech Conference, a three-day event held in Ilorin. The conference, which has become a prominent gathering for youth-focused tech initiatives, aimed to empower participants through networking, skill-building, and business growth opportunities.

State Government’s Commitment to Youth and Technology

Speaking at the event, the Kwara State Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Mrs. Damilola Yusuf-Adelodun, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to invest in youth development and technological progress. She noted that the administration has taken strategic steps to ensure young people have access to resources and opportunities that will enable them to thrive in the tech industry.

Mrs. Yusuf-Adelodun highlighted the importance of events like the Kwarabuild Tech Conference, stating that such gatherings offer startups a platform to connect, share ideas, and grow their businesses. She reiterated her ministry’s commitment to working closely with tech experts, professionals, and entrepreneurs to address critical challenges such as funding, policy support, and the creation of innovative programs.

“Our administration is committed to building a sustainable technology ecosystem that will drive economic growth and create job opportunities for our youths,” she said. “We will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that the tech sector in Kwara reaches its full potential.”

Kwara Tech Startups Celebrating the Kwarabuild Initiative

The Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, commended Kwarabuild for organizing one of the state’s most significant tech events. He noted that the conference aligns with the government’s vision of empowering young people to tackle societal challenges through innovation.

“The Kwara State government has consistently demonstrated its support for initiatives that focus on youth empowerment. Events like Kwarabuild provide a platform for young minds to explore opportunities in technology and related fields,” Kolawole said.

Kolawole praised the organizers for their dedication to fostering innovation and providing young people with the tools to succeed in the digital age. He also emphasized the government’s unwavering support for individuals and organizations committed to addressing youth challenges.

Kwara Tech Startups Expert Panel Discussions and Key Insights

Kwara Tech Startups event featured panel discussions with prominent experts in the tech industry. Speakers included Engineer Taofik Abdulkareem of Plat Technology Limited, Temi Kolawole of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, and Yahyah Olushola Gegele of Premium Blue Economy Innovation and Investment Limited. These experts shared insights on leveraging technology to create opportunities in agriculture, commerce, and other sectors.

Participants were encouraged to think creatively and explore ways to use technology to address real-world challenges. The panelists also discussed strategies for securing funding, building sustainable businesses, and navigating the competitive tech landscape.

Empowering Youth Through Training and Collaboration

In his opening remarks, Kwarabuild Co-Founder Ibraheem Zulkifli revealed that approximately 1,500 youths from the North Central region and beyond participated in the two-day pre-conference workshop. The training sessions, held on Thursday and Friday, were designed to equip participants with practical skills in technology and innovation.

“Our goal is to uncover hidden talents among these participants and provide them with the tools they need to achieve self-reliance,” Zulkifli said. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with the state government and other stakeholders to ensure that young people have easier access to resources that can help them escape poverty and unemployment.

Zulkifli highlighted the focus of the training sessions, which included identifying and solving technological challenges, developing entrepreneurial skills, and fostering creativity. He expressed gratitude to the state government for its support, stating, “Kwara State has never experienced this level of encouragement for youth development before. We are truly thankful.”

Expanding Opportunities for Kwaran Youth

Another Co-Founder of Kwarabuild, Kamaldeen Kehinde, underscored the significance of the event in providing local youth with access to high-quality tech programs without the need to travel to other states.

“This conference spares our people the inconvenience of traveling to Lagos or Abuja for similar opportunities. It’s a game-changer for the tech ecosystem in Kwara State,” Kehinde said. He also called for continued support from both the government and private sector to ensure the sustainability of initiatives like Kwarabuild.

Adeola Olaleye, an Abuja-based Co-Founder, also spoke about the platform’s role in helping young people discover and harness their talents. “Our goal is to provide an avenue for youths to showcase their potential and turn their ideas into reality,” she said.

Participant Experiences and Feedback

Participants at the conference expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn and grow. Salahudeen AbdulRauf, one of the attendees, shared how the program improved his understanding of technology and computer software development.

“I’ve gained so much knowledge from this event. The workshops and panel discussions have opened my eyes to new possibilities in the tech world,” he said.

Another participant, Kulepa Boluwatife, praised the organizers for creating an inclusive environment where young people could thrive. “This event has been a turning point for me. I now have the confidence to pursue my tech ambitions,” she said.

A Vision for the Future

The success of the seventh edition of the Kwarabuild Tech Conference reflects the growing importance of technology in shaping the future of Kwara State. With continued support from the state government and other stakeholders, the tech ecosystem in Kwara is poised for significant growth.

The government’s commitment to empowering youth through initiatives like Kwarabuild is a testament to its vision of a brighter future for the state. By investing in young people and creating opportunities for innovation, Kwara State is positioning itself as a hub for technological advancement and economic development.

In conclusion, the Kwarabuild Tech Conference has not only provided a platform for learning and networking but also showcased the potential of Kwara’s youth. With the support of the government and other partners, the future of technology and innovation in the state looks incredibly promising. Events like this highlight the importance of collaboration, creativity, and determination in driving progress and creating a better future for all.