Overview
In a recent summit in Abuja, stakeholders gathered to address the challenges and future prospects of blockchain and Web3 education in Nigeria. One of the primary obstacles highlighted was the vast linguistic diversity within the nation.
Summit Insights
At the Digital Assets Summit 2023, hosted by the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SIBAN), a panel discussion focused on the topic “Web3 Education: Capacity Building” took center stage. Here, experts talked about Nigeria’s impressive blockchain and crypto consciousness but also shed light on the education-related issues in the field.
Language Hurdles
Bello Usman Abdullahi, COO of Bitkova Academy, a renowned blockchain education“ platform, spotlighted the language obstacle. With blockchain technology’s inherent complexity and specialized terminology, the challenge is amplified in Nigeria, a country boasting over 500 languages.
Local Solutions
Despite the language challenge, local blockchain hubs are taking initiative. They have begun leveraging the nation’s linguistic richness, offering blockchain education in various indigenous Nigerian languages. Abdullahi emphasized the significance of conveying the true intentions behind blockchain technology, as originally envisioned by its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. This understanding, he believes, is vital to dispel misconceptions and fears instilled by institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the national government.
Past Challenges and Hope for the Future
The journey of blockchain awareness in Nigeria hit a snag in February 2021 when the CBN halted all dealings between local banks and crypto exchanges. Abdullahi suggests that this move not only curtailed blockchain growth but also embedded negative impressions about blockchain and crypto in the populace.
However, hope isn’t lost. Even with the challenges, Nigeria’s interest in crypto remains robust, evidenced by its global rank in Bitcoin search interest, holding the No. 2 spot, following a brief stint at the top.
In Conclusion
While Nigeria continues its journey in the blockchain landscape, acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges, such as the language barrier, will be crucial. With proactive measures from local hubs and experts, the nation seems poised for a brighter future in blockchain technology.
