Tech Diversity in Nigeria 5.0: Bridging the Gap Between Talent and Opportunity

1. Introduction: The Nigerian Dilemma

In the bustling streets of Lagos, in the quiet corners of Kano, and across the digital hubs of Abuja, a troubling reality looms over Nigeria’s youth. According to available data, universities and polytechnics in Nigeria admit close to 2 million students and produce approximately 600,000 graduates each academic year.

These individuals step out of university gates, armed with degrees but facing a job market that is neither ready nor willing to absorb them. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s unemployment rate was 33.3% in 2021. While recent adjustments in methodology have reported a decrease, the struggle for sustainable employment remains a pressing issue.

This economic distress has led to the widespread adoption of a phrase among students and recent graduates: "School na scam." It is a sentiment born out of frustration, reflecting the mismatch between traditional education and real-world employability.

However, the issue is not education but the lack of practical, high-demand skills that today’s job market requires. This is where Tech Diversity in Nigeria (TDN) steps in.

2. What is Tech Diversity in Nigeria?

Tech Diversity in Nigeria (TDN) is not just another training program; it is a movement. In its fifth year, TDN has onboarded over 13,000 individuals, successfully training 5,000 participants who met rigorous industry standards.

Founded on the principle of equipping individuals with in-demand tech skills, TDN aims to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity while fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. This is not just about teaching people how to code or analyze data; it is about creating a sustainable ecosystem where anyone, regardless of background, can thrive in tech.

3. TDN 5.0: A Bigger, More Impactful Edition

As we step into Tech Diversity in Nigeria 5.0, this year’s edition has been expanded to 24 weeks; twice the length of previous cohorts. This decision is based on past experiences, recognizing that 12 weeks is not enough to develop job-ready skills. By extending the program, participants gain a more comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that truly prepares them for real-world challenges.

Who Can Apply?

TDN 5.0 is open to:

• Beginners looking to start a tech career.
• Tech enthusiasts are eager to upskill and gain real-world experience.
• Students and professionals who want to pivot into tech.
• Passionate individuals committed to learning and completing the program.

No prior tech experience is required; just a willingness to learn and grow.

4. The Application Process

Step 1: Access and Registration

1. Visit https://thetechdiversity.org/
2. Click on the Enrol or Available Cohort button.
3. Among the list of cohorts, select Tech Diversity 5.0

Step 2: Program Selection

1. First, read the instructions, second, select the track you want.
2. At this stage, the portal will ask you to sign in, if you don't have an account, create one for yourself (you should see the create account link below).
3. When you are done with the signup or account creation, you should be redirected to the cohort page (if you are not redirected, you can follow the process from step one again).

Step 3: Assessment & Qualification

1. Now, you will be required to enrol (we've made it free for you)
2. After enrolment, you will be asked to complete an assessment to evaluate your current skills.
3. Next, you are to enrol for a short introductory course. Note: The introductory course serves as a qualification filter - only those who complete it will be considered for the training scholarship.

Step 4: Program Access

1. Once you complete the short course, you will gain full access to the 24-week training program.
2. At the end of the registration phase, everyone will be notified about their application status. Those who qualify will be invited to our Slack channel for a collaborative interaction with other learners and facilitators.

Registration is free, but commitment is required.

5. Why TDN Matters: A Solution to a National Problem

a. Skills Over Degrees

The Nigerian job market is evolving. Traditional degrees, while valuable, are no longer enough. Employers now seek candidates with practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and real-world experience; qualities that many graduates lack due to outdated curriculums.

TDN addresses this by focusing on:

• Project-based learning
• Mentorship from industry experts
• Building real-world portfolios
• Ensuring employability, not just education

b. A Direct Pathway to Employment

Unlike many theoretical courses, TDN is structured for real-world job readiness. The best-performing participants do not just complete the program; they leave with portfolios that attract employers. Many of our past trainees now work at top tech firms, freelance internationally, or have launched their startups.

c. Making Tech Accessible for All

A common myth in Nigeria is that tech is only for the elite; those who can afford expensive boot camps or foreign certifications. TDN 5.0 shatters this myth by offering high-quality training for free while ensuring an inclusive, diverse learning environment.

Program Guidelines: What It Takes to Succeed

To ensure fairness and high-quality learning, TDN 5.0 has a few important guidelines:

• Active Participation: Participants must complete all required tasks, projects, and mentorship sessions.
• 80% Pass Mark Required: Participants scoring below 80% in assessments and projects will not be considered as completing the program.
• Engagement: Weekly check-ins and assignment submissions are mandatory.

Only dedicated participants will make it to the finish line.

6. Final Assessment and Project:

• This is where we test whether you are ready for the job market.
• Please note that this stage is only for those who complete all the assigned tasks from the tracks they enrol for.
• Read more about it here: https://instincthub.com/blog/student-final-assessment-briefing

7. Certificates & Rewards: Recognizing Excellence

• Certificate of Completion – Available to all graduates, with a small processing fee.
• Top 10 Performers – Receive their certificates for free as a reward for outstanding performance.

The certificate is more than just a document; it serves as proof of skills and credibility, ready to be showcased on resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

8. Join the Movement: The Future Starts Now

TDN 5.0 is more than just a training program; it is a chance to change the future. In a country where opportunities can seem scarce, this is an opportunity to take control and create a personal success story.

Do not let another year pass by waiting for change. Be part of a program that transforms lives and bridges the gap between education and employability.

Limited slots are available. Apply now and take the first step toward a thriving tech career. Visit https://thetechdiversity.org/