How easy it is to learn how to code as a student in Nigeria in 2024

With the advent of technology such as generative AI, one might imagine if there is hope for developers and programmers. However, there is indeed hope; it’s just that the way we will be coding will be different.

I recently discovered that students are now mandated to study a topic in Mathematics called “critical thinking,” just as of recently. It was not as expected. Instead of solving solutions, the topic merely allows students to cram true and false statements and pour them out in their examinations.

Coding is an essential tool in this century and should be learned by all students. It is, by far, a skill that, if learned in the right way, can offer solutions and enhance students’ critical thinking skills. The beauty of this skill is that its resources are readily available at the age of 5, if not earlier. Scratch 3 has made it possible for young pupils to learn to code even at a very tender age at no cost at all. It encompasses all the essentials for them to become part of the coding world.

Importance of Learning How to Code as a Nigerian Student

Aside from building critical thinking skills, coding can result in early access to opportunities. Teens and young adults can lift their families from poverty by becoming proficient web or game developers. This is quite easy to obtain these days and gives students time and efficiency to engage in other activities without affecting their learning.

Here are some key reasons why learning how to code is important for Nigerian students in today’s world:

1. Job Opportunities:

By far, this is one key benefit for students aspiring to be a programmer. Coding skills open up a wide range of job opportunities in sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment, both locally and globally. The best part about this is that, the market is always expanding.

2. Problem Solving:

As discussed earlier, problem solving skill is easily obtained in coding. Coding teaches critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Believe me, this are valuable in all aspects of life. As a programmer, I can figure out a meal from the limited resources at home.

3. Innovation:

Knowing how to code empowers students to innovate and create solutions to real-world problems. Coding help to reduce our reliance on foreign countries and drives technological advancement in the country.

4. Global Connectivity:

Coding connects students to a global community of developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs, providing opportunities for collaboration and learning from diverse perspectives. It is one tool that can greatly give students the opportunity to relate to people or organization he or she cannot imagine in a lifetime.

5. Entrepreneurship:

The richest people out there are some worth inline with coding. Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs, Jack Ma, Satya Nadella, Tim Cook, Reed Hastings and Bill Gates among others are top entrepreneurs that have great influences in technology. Coding skills empower students to develop their own software, apps, or websites, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.

6. Future-Proofing:

AI is making some skills around the world obsolete. As automation and AI continue to reshape industries, coding skills will be in high demand across various sectors, making students with coding knowledge more adaptable and future-proof in their careers.

Where to Learn How to Code from Nigeria as a Student.

In today’s age and time, it is very easy to acquire coding skills. With a PC or a smartphone (virtually everyone has a smartphone today in Nigeria), one can learn to code in no time. The beauty of coding is that most programming languages have similar syntax. Learning one will give you an advantage when trying out another.

Here are a couple of tools or platforms that will help you to start coding as a student in Nigeria in 2024.

1. freeCodeCamp (freecodecamp.org):

A comprehensive platform offering interactive coding tutorials, projects, and certifications across various programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more. With its supportive community and hands-on approach, freeCodeCamp is an ideal starting point for aspiring coders.

2. W3Schools (w3schools.com):

A trusted resource for web development tutorials and references, covering topics ranging from HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to SQL, PHP, and more. W3Schools provides clear explanations and examples, making it an invaluable tool for beginners and experienced developers alike.

3. Scratch 3 (scratch.mit.edu):

Scratch is a beginner-friendly programming language and online community where users can create interactive stories, games, and animations. With its block-based interface, Scratch simplifies coding concepts, making it suitable for children and beginners. Users can access Scratch 3 both online and by downloading the desktop version for offline use.

4. SoloLearn (sololearn.com):

SoloLearn offers a series of mobile apps for learning programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, and more. With bite-sized lessons, quizzes, and coding challenges, SoloLearn provides a convenient way for students to learn coding on the go, directly from their smartphones.

5. Grasshopper (learn.grasshopper.app):

Developed by Google, Grasshopper is a mobile app designed to teach beginners the fundamentals of coding through quick and engaging lessons. With its game-like interface and intuitive approach, Grasshopper introduces concepts like variables, loops, and functions in a fun and accessible manner.

6. Mimo: Learn to Code (getmimo.com):

Mimo offers a personalized learning experience with courses on programming languages, web development, app development, and more. Through its interactive lessons and challenges, Mimo equips students with the skills and confidence to pursue coding projects and career opportunities.

7. Khan Academy (khanacademy.org):

Khan Academy provides a variety of educational resources, including coding tutorials covering topics like JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and computer science principles. With its self-paced courses and instructional videos, Khan Academy offers a flexible learning environment for students of all ages.

My Final Thought

In 2024, acquiring coding skills is easily accessible. With a PC or smartphone, students can take on coding tutorials and exercises with ease. Platforms like freecodecamp.org and w3schools.com offer comprehensive resources, catering to learners of all levels.

As Nigeria alongside other part of the world moves into the digital age, the journey towards coding proficiency is essential for students of all ages, whether you are in primary, secondary, or tertiary institution.

The benefits of coding extend far beyond the four corners of the classroom. It empowers learners to innovate, solve problems, and lead a way for a brighter future. In 2024, let us embrace coding and see to a profound and boundless possibilities it holds. The door is wide open!