No too much talk today. IA (Ire Aderinokun), is a Software Developer and Google Developer Expert (there are not many of them in the world) is looking to build the skills of Nigerian women in the Technology industry. She is one of the few women in STEM at the forefront of technology globally. Having giving talks at several global conferences, it is believed she has tasted firsthand the benefit of being a woman in STEM and is keen on giving back to the society.
On Saturday, June 10, she announced her scholarship scheme for 5 dedicated Nigerian women to complete an Udacity Nanodegree of their choosing.
https://twitter.com/ireaderinokun/status/873605022709407745
Let me help you visualise this.
What is an Udacity Nanodegree and how much does it cost?
Udacity is a for-profit educational institution offering massive open online courses (MOOCs). Their nanodegree programme serves as a compressed version of their full programmes. This implies it is more intensive.
According to an update made 5 hours ago on their support site, an average Udacity Nanodegree degree cost $199/month (although, there are other forms of payment). And it usually takes about 6 -12 months to complete a Nanodegree. However, Ire hopes the women would be dedicated enough to complete said program in 6 months as this is one of the only five requirements. Now, imagine paying a sum of about $1,200 for 5 people. That’s $6,000. Bringing it all together, with a dollar to naira at 365. Ire is willing to invest about 2 million naira in Nigerian Women for skill advancement in Technology.
There are 11 courses to pick from. Hopefully, you’ll find one which looks exciting enough. If you are a beginner to programming then please I strongly recommend the Intro to Programming course. It is estimated that if you studied 10hrs a week, you’ll complete the ‘Intro to programming’ in 5 months. Hence, Ire’s requirement (of completion within 6 months) is reasonable.
My Parting words: Programming is hot right now and you’ll be doing your future yourself some good by learning it now.
If you are interested in taking a Nanodegree course, please apply here. Do well to share this post with your un(der)employed female friends in Nigeria.