In a significant move to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Nigeria, Interswitch, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company, has partnered with Cisco to donate vital IT equipment to five prominent tertiary institutions.
This collaborative initiative will see Interswitch provide network and computing devices, including routers and switches, to selected universities. Complementing this hardware contribution, Cisco will offer specialized training through its Cisco Networking Academy, enabling students to acquire industry-recognized certifications. The academy’s comprehensive curriculum covers essential areas such as cybersecurity, networking, and programming, equipping students with the necessary skills to pursue successful careers in the rapidly evolving Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
The beneficiary institutions for this round of donations are Federal University, Owerri (FUTO), University of Benin (UNIBEN), Covenant University, Ota, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos (YABATECH) and University of Lagos.
Babafemi Ogungbamila, Executive Vice President, Group Operations and Technology at Interswitch, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. “As a technology company, Interswitch recognizes the pivotal role of STEM education in driving national development. We understand the critical need for adequate IT resources in this field, which is why we are donating these devices to empower students and enhance their STEM skills,” he stated.
He further highlighted the enduring partnership with Cisco, noting, “This milestone reinforces our strong and consistent collaboration with Cisco in fostering digital skills development. For the second time, we are uniting with a shared vision: to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge necessary for success in the STEM domain.”
Abdel Saidu, Solutions Engineering Lead at Cisco Nigeria, elaborated on the impact of the Cisco Networking Academy. “Through our extensive range of courses, learning pathways, and network of employers, coupled with our partnerships with governments, academic institutions, and non-profits, we are empowering the workforce with digital skills to build sustainable and secure businesses and more equitable societies. Since its inception in Nigeria, the academy has trained over 745,000 learners across 228 institutions, with a notable 44 percent female participation,” he said.
Interswitch’s donation aligns with its ongoing commitment to promoting STEM education among African students. The company actively encourages the uptake of STEM courses through initiatives such as the Interswitch SPAK National Science Competition, held annually in Nigeria and East Africa.
This initiative builds upon the success of the previous edition, where Interswitch donated IT equipment to ten Nigerian institutions, including Igbinedion University, Benin City; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; University of Maiduguri; and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, among others