Financial Services Innovators (FSI), in partnership with Mentors Without Borders (MWB), has announced the launch of a six-month Tech Mentorship Programme at Thomas Adewunmi University (TAU) in Kwara State.
The initiative aims to upskill 50 students in high-demand technology fields and enhance their global employability, FSI said in a statement on Wednesday, October 22.
“Building on the successful collaboration that established the FSI Virtual Innovation Lab at TAU, this new mentorship programme marks another milestone in FSI’s commitment to empowering young African innovators with practical digital skills, it stated.
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According to FSI, a non-profit organisation that drives innovation and collaboration across Africa’s financial and technology ecosystem, the programme will provide hands-on training and mentorship in web development, machine learning, AI product management, project management, digital marketing, and technical sales support.
It is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and industry application, noting that participants will work on real-life projects that can be added to their professional portfolios.
It will connect students to mentors drawn from top global technology firms, including Microsoft, Google, and Atlassian, among others.
In support of the programme, Mentors Without Borders, a Europe-based organisation that connects expert mentors with young professionals and students worldwide to promote global skill development, digital inclusion, and professional growth, has donated five laptops, ten Logitech H390 USB Computer Headsets, and a Starlink internet setup with a six-month subscription to the university’s computer lab.
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It is estimated that, including equipment and mentorship support, the programme costs ₦53 million, with ₦3 million in direct donations.
“This initiative represents our vision to build a strong pipeline of skilled tech talent across African universities,” said Aituaz Kola-Oladejo, Executive Director of Financial Services Innovators (FSI).
“Thomas Adewunmi University has shown exceptional commitment to innovation, and we are proud to pilot this transformative mentorship programme here.”
Founder & Executive Director of Mentors Without Borders, Edmond Pruteanu, added, “Our partnership with FSI has already shown how much we can achieve together when we focus on creating real opportunities for young people.
“Building on that success, we’re now excited to expand our work in Nigeria through a new collaboration with Thomas Adewunmi University. Nigeria has one of the most creative and ambitious young generations in Africa, and we’re proud to support them as they grow their tech skills and confidence for the future.”
On her part, the Vice Chancellor of TAU, Prof. Francisca Oladipo, welcomed the partnership, emphasising its alignment with the university’s mission to nurture future-ready graduates.
“At TAU, we believe that education must be relevant and responsive to today’s global digital economy. This partnership will give our students direct exposure to international mentors, practical tools, and industry perspectives,” she said.
FSI stated further that the MWB mentorship programme at TAU will serve as a pilot initiative, with plans to expand to other universities across Nigeria and Africa upon successful completion.
Alex is a business journalist cum data enthusiast with the Pinnacle Daily. He can be reached via ealex@thepinnacleng.com, @ehime_alex on X
