Mokuolu Champions Technology Literacy Through Youth
Empowerment, Community Development in Nigeria
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Technology literacy and youth empowerment are becoming central to Nigeria’s development efforts, with IT professionals playing a key role in bridging the digital
divide. One such advocate is Oluwaseyi Mokuolu, whose work in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Blockchain, and Cloud Computing has been pivotal in advancing tech education and community development across the country.
Speaking on the importance of technological advancement, Mokuolu said, “Technology is not just a tool for innovation—it’s a necessity for survival in today’s
economy. Without it, individuals and organizations will struggle to stay competitive.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s youth must be prepared to navigate this evolving
landscape, particularly with emerging technologies transforming every sector.
Mokuolu, who has over a decade of experience in the tech industry, reflected on the increasing role of digital tools in driving economic growth – “AI, data analytics, and cloud computing are no longer futuristic concepts; they are here to shape how we
live and work, and the youth should play an inclusive role in this tech evolution,” he explained..
In addition to his professional work, Mokuolu has been actively involved in youth
empowerment initiatives, aiming to equip the next generation with the skills needed to succeed in a digital world. “We cannot build a sustainable future for Nigeria without investing in the education of young people,” he said. “Technology literacy is
not just about coding or software—it’s about understanding how to apply these skills
to solve real-world problems and improve lives.”
When asked about his approach to education, Mokuolu credited his academic journey, noting, “Obafemi Awolowo University laid the foundation for my career,
while my studies at Brunel University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of the Cumberlands refined my understanding of global
technological trends. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to share what I have learned with others, especially in communities where access to tech education is limited.”
Mokuolu also highlighted the critical need for long-term investment in infrastructure and digital access, particularly in underserved communities. “We need to go beyond
the major cities and ensure that even rural areas have access to the internet, digital tools, and quality education. This is not just a government responsibility; the private
sector has a huge role to play as well,” he explain His commitment to youth empowerment extends beyond Nigeria’s borders through his involvement with global organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).
These platforms allow me to collaborate with professionals worldwide, sharing insights and learning from others on how technology can be used to foster community growth,” Mokuolu noted.
Addressing the challenges of bridging the digital divide in Nigeria, Mokuolu said, “We have a lot of work to do, but I’m optimistic. The first step is making technology
education accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic background. With the right
investments and partnerships, we can create a more inclusive tech ecosystem that
benefits everyone.”
Looking ahead, Mokuolu emphasized the importance of sustained efforts in promoting technology literacy. “This is not a one-time project; it’s an ongoing mission. The world is changing fast, and if we want Nigeria to keep up, we must stay committed to empowering our youth and communities with the tools they need to succeed.”
