What I Learned from Google I/O Extended 2018 in Warri, Nigeria

Attending the Google I/O Extended event in Warri, Nigeria in 2018 was a pivotal experience that dramatically shaped my trajectory as both a software developer and community builder. While I walked in eager to catch a glimpse of Google‘s latest technological advancements, I walked away with something far more valuable – a deeper understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and incredible potential that exist in my local tech ecosystem.

The State of Tech in Warri

First, let‘s set the stage with some context on the current state of technology in Warri and Delta State as a whole. Like many regions in Nigeria, Warri is a city where the passion for technology far outpaces the infrastructure to support it.

According to a recent study by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, Delta State currently has an internet penetration rate of just 36.8%, well below the national average of 50.2%. This digital divide is even more pronounced in rural areas, where access to computers and reliable electricity is severely limited.

However, this lack of infrastructure hasn‘t dampened the enthusiasm for technology. In fact, it‘s quite the opposite. A 2019 survey conducted by the Warri Tech Community found that 82% of young people in Warri are interested in pursuing a career in technology. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between this interest and the resources needed to cultivate it.

Challenges Facing Local Developers

The developers I spoke with at Google I/O Extended echoed this sentiment, sharing the numerous obstacles they face in their journeys to becoming world-class programmers:

1. Education: While there is no shortage of online learning resources, many aspiring developers struggle to find structured, comprehensive training programs that cover both the fundamentals of computer science and practical skills needed for the job market. University computer science programs are often theory-heavy and outdated, leaving graduates ill-equipped for the demands of modern software development.

2. Infrastructure: Frequent power outages, slow and expensive internet connectivity, and limited access to computing devices pose significant barriers to learning and building software. Many developers are forced to work from crowded cyber cafes or rely on costly generator power to stay online.

3. Mentorship and Support: Without a strong network of experienced developers to learn from and lean on, many aspiring programmers struggle to navigate the fast-paced and ever-evolving tech landscape. Imposter syndrome and burnout are rampant, leading many to give up before they‘ve even gotten started.

4. Funding and Opportunities: While the global demand for software talent continues to skyrocket, local opportunities for developers in Warri are limited. Without a thriving startup ecosystem or major tech companies with a presence in the area, many resort to freelance work for foreign clients or leave the region altogether in search of jobs.

Lessons from the Google I/O Extended Sessions

Despite these challenges, the energy and determination I witnessed at Google I/O Extended gave me immense hope for the future of tech in Warri. The event featured a packed schedule of sessions covering everything from the latest Android development features to machine learning workflows in Google Cloud.

Some of my key learnings and takeaways:

1. Kotlin is the future of Android development. With Google now officially supporting Kotlin as a first-class language for Android, it‘s clear that this expressive and concise language is here to stay. As a full-stack developer, I‘m excited to dive deeper into Kotlin and explore its potential for simplifying and accelerating mobile app development.

2. Machine Learning is becoming more accessible than ever. With tools like TensorFlow.js and ML Kit, it‘s now possible to integrate powerful machine learning models into web and mobile apps without extensive data science expertise. I‘m particularly excited about the potential for using ML to build solutions for local challenges like agricultural yield prediction and disease diagnosis.

3. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are a game-changer for performance and reach. By leveraging web technologies to build app-like experiences that work offline and on low-powered devices, PWAs have the potential to bring the power of software to communities that have traditionally been underserved by native apps. As a web developer, I‘m committed to using PWAs to build more inclusive and accessible solutions.

4. Collaboration and community are key to success. One of the most powerful aspects of Google I/O Extended was the opportunity to connect with other passionate developers and share knowledge and experiences. It served as a powerful reminder that we are stronger together, and that by supporting and uplifting each other, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

The Path Forward

So, what can we as developers and community members do to translate these lessons into meaningful impact? Here are a few ideas:

1. Invest in education and mentorship. If you‘re an experienced developer, consider volunteering to teach workshops or mentor aspiring programmers in your local community. If you‘re just getting started, seek out learning opportunities and don‘t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

2. Contribute to open-source projects. Not only is contributing to open-source a great way to build your skills and portfolio, but it‘s also an opportunity to give back to the global developer community. Consider starting with projects that align with your interests and local needs, like tools for improving agricultural efficiency or platforms for connecting local businesses with customers.

3. Advocate for investment in infrastructure. While we may not be able to solve the energy crisis or build a nationwide broadband network overnight, we can advocate for policies and investments that prioritize closing the digital divide. This could include lobbying local government for technology grants, partnering with NGOs to expand access to computers and internet in underserved areas, or supporting startups working on innovative infrastructure solutions.

4. Build for the community, not just the market. As developers, we have the power to create solutions that tangibly improve people‘s lives. Rather than chasing the latest Silicon Valley trends, consider how you can use your skills to address local challenges like access to healthcare, education, or financial services. Build products that meet people where they are, and prioritize impact over profits.

5. Celebrate and uplift each other. Finally, let‘s commit to creating a tech culture in Warri and beyond that is inclusive, supportive, and celebratory. Let‘s champion each other‘s successes, learn from each other‘s failures, and keep pushing forward together. Because if there‘s one thing I know for sure, it‘s that the future of tech in Africa is incredibly bright – and it‘s going to be built by us.

Get Involved

If you‘re passionate about technology and want to be a part of building the tech ecosystem in Warri and beyond, here are a few ways to get started:

• Join the Warri Tech Community – Connect with local developers, designers, and entrepreneurs, and stay up-to-date on events, opportunities, and resources. [Join here]

• Attend a Meetup – From code camps to hackathons to tech talks, there are plenty of opportunities to learn and network with other techies. Check out our events calendar to see what‘s coming up. [View calendar]

• Start a Study Group – Learning is more fun (and effective) together. Grab a few friends or colleagues and commit to studying a new skill or topic each week. Need ideas? Check out our recommended learning resources. [View resources]

• Volunteer Your Skills – Looking for a way to give back? Consider volunteering to teach a workshop, mentor a student, or contribute your skills to a local nonprofit or community project. [Find opportunities]

• Join a Hackathon – Put your skills to the test and build something awesome with a team of other developers. Join one of our upcoming hackathons or organize your own around a local challenge or opportunity. [View hackathons]

No matter where you are on your journey as a developer, there‘s a place for you in the Warri tech community. Together, we can build a future where technology is a powerful force for good, and where every person has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.

Let‘s get to work.