FG unveils 2026 Build-A-Thon holiday camp for students

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) has announced the return of its Build-A-Thon Holiday Camp for the 2026 Easter break.

The notice, released today, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, invites parents and guardians to register secondary school students for an immersive five-day program designed to bridge the digital skills gap.

Program Overview
Dates: April 20 – April 24, 2026.

Target Audience: Young Nigerians aged 10 to 18 (Junior and Senior Secondary students).

Locations: The 2026 edition will take place across multiple hubs, including:

Lagos

Abuja (FCT)

Enugu

Kano

Ogun

Delta

What Students Will Learn
The camp is designed to move beyond basic computer literacy, focusing on "maker culture" and hands-on creation. Key modules include:

Internet of Things (IoT) & Robotics: Using hardware like Raspberry Pi to build smart prototypes.

Embedded Systems: Understanding how computers interact with the physical world.

Coding & AI: Introducing foundational programming logic and artificial intelligence applications.

Problem-Solving: Encouraging students to build prototypes for real-world challenges, such as smart irrigation or home security systems.

How to Register
Registration is currently open through an online form linked on the Ministry’s official social media handles (specifically their X/Twitter account). The program aims to provide low-barrier access to high-end tech tools, often providing DIY kits and expert-led workshops for free or at a subsidized rate.

The Minister, Dr. 'Bosun Tijani, has previously emphasized that the Build-A-Thon is a critical pillar of the government's plan to raise a "technologically aware" generation. By introducing these skills during holiday periods, the ministry aims to complement the traditional school curriculum with the practical skills needed for the global digital economy.