Students from 11 Nigerian universities, including the Lagos State University (LASU) and Covenant University will showcase their technical prowess at a hackathon scheduled to start on November 3.
The event, tagged DecaHack is organised by Sahara ICP Hub and sponsored by Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday, Christopher Eniayemo, co-founder of ICP, said other universities expected are Taye Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Federal University Gusau, Federal University of Technology (FUT Minna), Federal University Lokoja, University of Jos (UniJos) University of Ilorin, Obafemi Awolowo University, (OAU), Kwara State University (KWASU), and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK).
“DecaHack is not just another hackathon; it is a testament to the evolving tech ecosystem in Nigeria,” Eniayemo said.
“As the world turns its attention to the potential of decentralised computing and the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP), Nigerian universities are joining hands to create a platform that fosters innovation, knowledge sharing, and the transformation of brilliant ideas into tangible projects.
He added that Sahara ICP Hub has been at the forefront of promoting tech innovation in Nigeria.
“By collaborating with ten leading Nigerian universities, they are opening doors to students and developers who are eager to explore the realm of ICP and its possibilities. The hub aims to harness the power of decentralised computing and blockchain to shape a future where Nigeria can stand tall in the global tech arena.”
The co-founder of ICP stated that “DecaHack presents an opportunity for students and developers to flex their creative muscles, interact with like-minded individuals, and seek mentorship from experts”.
“It provides them with an avenue to shape their ideas, be it a mobile app, a blockchain solution, or a game-changing app,” he added.
“One of the most exciting aspects of DecaHack is its focus on turning innovative projects into potential startups.
“The event encourages participants to think beyond the hackathon and consider the real-world applications of their ideas.
“By providing the right guidance and resources, DecaHack hopes to launch the next generation of tech entrepreneurs who will create job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and solve real-world problems.”
He noted that Decahack as a competition is a testament to the growing tech community in Nigeria.
“It’s about networking, sharing knowledge, and building connections that will extend beyond the hackathon. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of collaboration and unity in diversity,” Eniayemo said.
“ Mentors will be available frequently during the scheduled mentorship sessions, and newly formed teams will have the opportunity to engage with them in a group or on a one-on-one basis. The role of the mentors is to provide mentorship in business, marketing, community building, and technical deployment, among others, to make their project a success and scale.
“This initiative has officially kicked off starting with the University of Jos on 3rd of November, 2023 with Federal University of Technology, Minna following on 4th of November.”
