Prof. Fred McBagonluri, President of Academic City University College, has urged for an educational curriculum that combines entrepreneurship and technology to help prepare young people in Africa to be relevant in the fast-changing global economy.
He explained that learning entrepreneurship helps students to think creatively and solve real-world problems and also gives them important skills like financial management and leadership, which are critical not just to start businesses but also to keep them running successfully.
Prof. McBagonluri, highlighting how technology is changing the way students learn, indicated that tools like virtual reality allow students to explore 3D environments, while augmented reality helps them work together on projects, boosting their creativity and communication skills.
The President of Academic City made this known while speaking at the 2024 Technology and Innovation Conference (TICON) in Kenya. The conference brought together industry leaders and innovators from over 30 countries to advance ICT solutions and ensure sustainable development across the continent.
This year’s conference theme highlighted how African ICT can address unique challenges for economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
TICON Africa is the ground-breaking Pan-African body of technology professionals spearheading the ongoing development of the highest possible standards of ICT knowledge and practice across Africa.
According to Prof. McBagonluri, Africa’s youth need to embrace both technology and an entrepreneurial mindset to succeed in the modern world.
He emphasised that Academic City’s approach to education combines classroom learning with practical experience in entrepreneurship and technology, helping students to develop the skills they need for future jobs.
He also stressed the importance of mentorship, saying that young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts need guidance and support from experienced professionals.
Prof. McBagonluri called for stronger partnerships between academia and industry to give students more real-world experience.
