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Why Coding Schools Are Struggling And What You Can Do

By
Ndubuisi Ekekwe
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1

Have you noticed that the booming tech (yes, coding) jobs are largely fading at scale? As that happens, most business models have expired in the sector. A decade ago, you could open a company, train young people in Africa on coding, and place them in some iconic brands in Western Europe and North America. Not anymore, because those areas have overcapacity.

In America, you can go to UpWork and hire ex-Facebook, ex-Snap, etc engineers. It is a bubble because the world produced a lot of these coders that after the great reset of the pandemic, many became superfluous. Sure, this is NOT to write that coding is gone. I am saying that coding does not guarantee a lot of things as in the past.

If you look deeper in Africa and India, you will notice that the top companies which train and place coding talent in North America are retrenching, changing leadership or have shut down. Why not since their US customers are letting go of indigenous tech guys at home? Bigtech continues to make tons of money even as they continue to reduce headcounts.

This is a very challenging time for entry level guys in this industry. And you can partly blame AI and its adoption in the design phase. In the value chain, entry level engineers are structured to support experienced engineers. But today, you do not need any human element as AI can deliver whatever most entry level guys are expected to do.

So, under that construct, companies do not need a lot of entry level engineers. They just need AI agents with experienced people who can begin with those agents to build products customers need.

If you are in college, what can you do? Internship. The future of work is changing because the “entry” level duties are being disintermediated by AI. As a result of that, few companies are hiring those with blank experience. In other words, even when in school, it is now beyond grades, you need to have project experiences to be given the opportunity in most firms. 

Of course, if you have skills on how to make a better AI system, that is an entry level skill everyone is looking for right now, in most fields. Did I hear Mathematics, Prompt engineering, Physics?

Here are 15 recommendations for tech job seekers navigating the current market:

  1. Specialize Your Skills: Focus on acquiring specialized skills such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity, which are in high demand.

2. Optimize Your Application Materials: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight relevant skills and experiences.

3. Prepare for Lengthy Interviews: Be ready for multiple interview rounds, which may include technical and behavioral assessments.

4. Leverage Networking: Build and utilize a professional network to find job opportunities and gain referrals.

5. Consider Remote Work: Explore remote positions to widen your job search beyond local opportunities.

6. Stay Informed on Industry Trends: Keep up with technological advancements and market trends to stay competitive.

7. Enhance Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in your skillset and mindset.

8. Pursue Continuous Learning: Engage in online courses, certifications, or workshops to improve your expertise.

9. Target High-Demand Roles: Focus on roles like IT manager, data scientist, or computer systems analyst, which have strong growth prospects.

10. Be Open to Different Roles: Consider a variety of positions that match your skills, even if they differ from your initial career path.

11. Strategize Your Job Search: Treat job hunting as a strategic campaign rather than just submitting applications.

12. Utilize Job Platforms Effectively: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and industry professionals.

13. Showcase Projects: Highlight personal or volunteer projects that demonstrate your skills and initiative.

14. Understand the Market Dynamics: Recognize that while there are more openings now than earlier in 2023, competition remains high.

15. Seek Feedback: After interviews or applications, request feedback to improve your approach for future opportunities.

OpenAI Plans Major Restructuring to Transition From Nonprofit to For-Profit, Valuation Could Reach $150 Billion

By
Ojukwu Emmanuel
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0

OpenAI, the company behind the popular AI Chatbot ChatGPT, is reportedly preparing for a significant restructuring to transition from its nonprofit roots to a for-profit model, which could see the company’s valuation soar.

The move to restructure comes alongside a new multi-billion-dollar funding round led by high-profile investors, which is expected to significantly boost the company’s valuation to as much as $150 billion.

According to Reuters, this move comes amid growing commercial interests in artificial intelligence (AI) and high-profile executive departures, raising questions about the future direction of the company and its commitment to its original mission. This shift could also grant CEO Sam Altman significant equity in the company for the first time, as he would receive a 7% equity stake, which would be worth about $10.5 billion at OpenAI’s new valuation.

The restructuring comes nearly a year after a major boardroom shakeup that saw OpenAI’s board vote to fire Altman over concerns about a lack of transparency. This saw some of the investors who backed OpenAI with $1 billion in 2019 unhappy with the board’s decision to fire Altman, openly considered taking legal action against them.

Five days after his sack, Altman was rehired with overwhelming support from employees and investors, but the aftermath led to the departure of several board members.

Fast forward to May, a prominent figure at the company Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI’s co-founder, left the company to start his own AI safety venture, Safe Superintelligence (SSI), which recently secured $1 billion in venture funding. In September 2024, CTO Mira Murati announced her resignation, followed by chief research officer Bob McGrew and research leader Barret Zoph. Altman has since promised to announce Murati’s successor soon.

OpenAI’s structure, which gives control of the for-profit subsidiary to its nonprofit arm, was initially designed to ensure the mission of creating “safe AGI that is broadly beneficial.” AGI, or artificial general intelligence, refers to AI that is at or exceeds human intelligence.

The restructuring has sparked mixed reactions from stakeholders within the AI industry. While investors view the move positively, noting that it allows for “normal expectation of pursuing profit from AI,” critics are concerned about the potential impact on AI safety and ethical use. Hyoun Park, CEO of Amalgam Insights, noted that this shift could enhance OpenAI’s partnerships with tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, and Nvidia.

However, critics worry the transition may lead to less transparency and a stronger focus on commercial interests. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, an early investor and co-founder of OpenAI, has been particularly vocal, labeling the transition from nonprofit to for-profit as “illegal”.

Musk in a lawsuit filed in a San Francisco court, paints a picture of betrayal and contractual breach, alleging that OpenAI reneged on its founding commitments to him and the broader public. Musk, a prominent figure in the AI industry and an early supporter of OpenAI asserts that he was persuaded to contribute to the establishment and funding of the organization in 2015 under the premise that it would operate exclusively as a non-profit entity.

The controversy primarily stems from concerns that OpenAI’s shift towards profitability could jeopardise its commitment to responsible and safe AI development. Also, critics argue that the quest for profit could incentivise a more aggressive push towards deploying powerful AI systems without sufficient safeguards.

It’s been quite the week for OpenAI, with the departure of several key leaders — including CTO Mira Murati — and reports that the company is trying to go for-profit. CEO Sam Altman denied that the move would grant him equity, telling employees that there are “no current plans” for him to receive a “giant equity stake,” CNBC reports, per an anonymous source. Chair Bret Taylor seemed to back him up, revealing that OpenAI’s board hasn’t reached a decision on the matter. Meanwhile, CFO Sarah Friar is working to reassure investors the firm is still on track to close a major new funding round. – LinkedIn News

Scarcity of Formal Jobs Pushes Nigeria’s Workforce Into The Informal Sector – Jobberman Report

By
Ojukwu Emmanuel
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0

The growth of Nigeria’s phenomenon informal sector is a complex phenomenon driven by a convergence of demographic trends, economic conditions, cultural practices, and technological advancements.

A recent Jobberman report titled “Nigeria’s Informal Sector; A pathway to sustainable economic transitions for young people”, revealed that with over 100 million youths, Nigeria holds the largest youth population in Africa, yet formal employment opportunities remain scarce. This challenge has pushed a substantial portion of the labor force into the informal sector.

As Nigeria rapidly urbanizes, informal urban economies continue to thrive, offering diverse opportunities for innovation and economic diversification. According to the World Bank’s Nigeria Urbanization Review (2018), activities like street vending, transportation services, and small-scale retail have surged, reflecting the urban-centric nature of the informal economy.

In recent years, technological advancements have played a crucial role in reshaping the informal sector. Technology-driven ventures have revolutionized traditional businesses, enhancing efficiency, market access, and connectivity. Digitization, in particular, has significantly disrupted conventional work structures, leading to shifts in employment preferences.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), many young Nigerians, especially women, are increasingly drawn to informal jobs that offer flexibility, such as freelancing and entrepreneurial ventures. While these changes are often tied to aspirations for entrepreneurship and work-life balance, poverty and the ease of entry into the informal sector remains a pivotal driver.

The report explored factors driving these changes, the challenges faced, and the potential in the informal sector;

1. Education and Workforce Dynamics in the Informal Sector

The Nigerian informal sector comprises highly educated individuals, with over 80% of surveyed workers having formal education and less than 1% having incomplete primary or secondary education. This shift towards a more educated informal workforce is contributing to its rapid expansion, especially in urban areas. As of Q3 2023, informal enterprises in urban segments grew by 25%, with a 20% increase in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and an 8% growth in contributions to the social security fund.

Interestingly, the number of technology firms focused on optimizing the informal sector is projected to double in the next five years, supporting growth and formalization efforts. Despite these advances, wage employment remains low, with only 12.7% of Nigerians in wage employment, while over 90% of the female population works in informal settings.

2. Entrepreneurial Motivations and Work Patterns

The motivation for transitioning into the informal sector often stems from dissatisfaction with formal employment conditions. Low salaries were cited by 80% of surveyed business owners (40% of whom are women) as the primary reason for leaving formal jobs to pursue self-employment or freelance work.

Survey data indicates the following key work patterns in the informal sector:

  • 50.53% of self-employed individuals run small businesses.
  • 33.55% are employers with paid staff.
  • 12.91% are freelancers.

A lack of flexibility, poor role definition, and limited recognition of skills in formal employment are driving these transitions. Freelance platforms further support this shift, particularly in the digital and creative industries, where workers can leverage gig economies but face challenges related to employment protection.

3. Upskilling and Networking Among Informal Workers

Informal businesses in Nigeria have become highly specialized and adaptable, continually upskilling to meet market demands. In a competitive business environment, small businesses-particularly youth-led enterprises- thrive by leveraging peer-to-peer engagements and using social media for business collaborations and skills development. Notably, talents in creative and digital sectors often view formal employment as a stepping stone to acquiring skills that help them develop.

4. Challenges of Income and Social Protection

While the informal sector offers considerable opportunities, it also faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of income stability and social security. Surveyed workers reported varied income levels, with 16% earning less than N30,000 per month, and most workers earning between N30,000 and N60,000. Many (39.61%) stated they could cover living expenses but without room for savings, while 31.14% struggled to meet personal expenses.

The irregular and often seasonal nature of informal work contributes to the sector’s volatility. Many workers earn on a per-job basis, which influences their attitudes toward savings and long-term financial planning. However, informal business owners have innovated by offering welfare packages such as meals, medical support, and educational assistance, though these initiatives remain discretionary.

6. Growth Prospects in the Informal Sector

Self-employment remains the core employment opportunity in Nigeria, particularly for youth and women seeking alternative income sources. The informal sector is expected to grow, especially in digital platforms, which are set to double in the next five years. This growth will create more organized markets, local gig jobs, and freelancing opportunities across various industries.

Agriculture, another key sector, is also expected to expand, driven by increasing food insecurity and the need for core production and support Services. Opportunities for women in agricultural processing, value addition, and farm labor are likely to rise, while challenges such as high feed costs in livestock farming remain.

Conclusion

The informal sector in Nigeria is evolving rapidly, with the youth, women, and small businesses at the forefront of this transformation. While challenges remain, including income instability, lack of formal social protection, and a volatile economic environment, the sector’s potential for job creation and innovation is immense.

Supportive policies and investments in technology, vocational training, and social protection will be essential to harness this potential and ensure sustainable growth in the coming years.

The Vast Range Of Skillsets Behind Major Tech Industries

By
TI Partners
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0

Whether you’re investing in tech firms or looking to jump into an industry yourself, knowing as much as possible about that area of business is essential for making good decisions. While the average investor may look at the surface level of operations, most tech businesses run far deeper and more complex than many realise. Here are some examples of just what goes into different huge tech industries.

Online Casino

At the front of things, the average online casino site looks relatively simple. As does the business practice, with players making deposits and placing bets on different kinds of games from poker to slots. To get to that stage, however, takes a lot more effort than it looks, and for someone to play the Age of the Gods slot machine or any other online game needs a journey through multiple tech types.

To begin with, logging in takes the player through several layers of identification on cybersecurity platforms, and then making the first deposit will go through a highly secure payment platform that can range all the way up to crypto integration. Then you have the website itself with the latest in interactive features powered by HTML 5, and finally the extensive development behind each of the games themselves.

Cybersecurity

We mentioned cybersecurity in passing above, but this is a lynchpin element of the tech world that comes with a lot of different elements itself. Virtually everything that happens online, every message or financial transaction, will pass through some level of encryption or security checks at some point, and making it all work takes a veritable army of different types of specialists.

To start with, there are the testers, agents, and ‘white hat’ hackers who are constantly launching simulated attacks against systems to try and expose flaws and faults. Then there are vast teams of software developers working around the clock to fix any gaps and find new ways to keep people safe, from mega companies like Mastercard to everyday email users. It’s a particularly interesting area for investors as well as it’s set for constant growth.

Component Development

Moving away from the pure software side of things, recent years and areas like cryptocurrency have made component development companies such as Intel, Nvidia, and AMD into very familiar names. Indeed, Nvidia became one of the most valuable stocks in the world at the beginning of the 2020s, and that has opened the industry up to a lot more general interest going forward.

Where development teams were once often a few driven enthusiasts back in the 80s, major companies will now employ huge numbers of scientists and engineers working in tandem to push the next generation of hardware forward. We’ve reached the point now where between nanotechnology, 3D stacking and advanced materials, any further progress requires nothing short of the very best human resources assigned to it and the biggest companies in the market are doing just that. Extra research behind the scenes of a tech business is always a good idea, no matter how simple or complex it may be. Remember, knowledge is power and very often means money as well.

Download PariPesa Apk and Win

By
TI Partners
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0

Place bets and spin your favorite slots without taking time away from your daily routine. Download the latest version of PariPesa apk from the most popular online platform in Nigeria and get a personal bookmaker and croupier on your gadget.

All the Advantages of the PariPesa Apk Application

With the PariPesa apk application, you will get all the options that are available on the official PariPesa platform, namely:

  • more than 30 different sports disciplines (football, basketball, tennis, boxing, cricket, pickleball, cycling, etc.);
  • bets on eSports (StarCraft 2, FIFA, Dota2, etc.);
  • a large selection of international championships and local competitions (FIFA, UEFA, local championships, and much more);
  • a variety of bet types and odds;
  • Live bets that are extremely popular among players;
  • the largest selection of games in Nigeria from the world’s best developers (live casino, online casino, slots, TV games, poker, baccarat, etc.);
  • many ways to replenish your deposit and withdraw winnings (Ideal Money, cryptocurrency, Neteller, etc.).

Users of the PariPesa Global APP can use the application without using a VPN, and the online platform’s customer support team will provide comprehensive support to players via round-the-clock text chat or email.

Winnings in the app are credited within a few minutes after the end of the match, and to withdraw your funds, you need to take a few simple steps:

  • log in to the Cashier on the PariPesa platform using your personal account;
  • choose a withdrawal method and enter the details of your chosen payment system or debit card.

A few simple manipulations and all the winnings are in your account.

Download the PariPesa apk and see for yourself all the benefits of the best gambling and betting app.

PariPesa Apk: Download and Installation

The PariPesa apk application can be installed for free on both Android and iOS phones and tablets.

Instructions for Android Owners

  1. Take your smartphone and go to > “Settings” > “Security” and give permission to install software from unknown sources.
  2. On the PariPesa website, scan the QR code or click the “Download Android App” button.
  3. Find the required ARC in the downloaded files folder on your phone and start installing the application.

System requirements for Android:

  • RAM – at least 1 GB;
  • processor speed – 1.4 GHz or higher;
  • ARC file size – 38 MB;
  • OS version – from Android 4.2.

Downloading Process for iOS

  1. Go to the AppStore and download the PariPesa app.
  2. Click the “Download iOS app” button or use the QR code on the platform’s official website.
  3. Return to the AppStore, click the “Get” button, and wait for the installation process.

System requirements for iOS:

  • RAM – 1 GB or more;
  • processor – at least 2 cores;
  • storage space – at least 100 MB;
  • iOS version – iOS 9.0 and later.

After successfully downloading the PariPesa apk to your gadget, you need to register and create your personal account to fully enjoy all the benefits of the best online platform in Nigeria.

PariPesa will reward all of its new users with generous welcome bonuses at the registration stage:

  • for the first deposit – 100% + 30 FS;
  • for the second deposit – 50% + 35 FS;
  • for the third – 25% + 40 FS;
  • for the fourth – 25% + 45 FS.

So, don’t miss the opportunity to try your luck with bonuses from the online platform and download the most popular application in Nigeria, PariPesa apk right now!

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