Semicolon, the Nigerian edtech that trains software engineers, has partnered with Nigeria’s first technical varsity, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (“Tech-U”) in Oyo State, to introduce a credit transfer pathway that allows Semicolon alumni to gain an undergraduate degree in computer science in two years instead of four.
The partnership gives Tech-U graduates access to Semicolon’s industry programs, and both institutions will co-develop curricula, train faculty, and explore new financing models to expand access to quality education.
The alliance marks the latest in a series of collaborations between Nigerian edtech firms and tertiary institutions, as stakeholders strive to align educational offerings with the evolving demands of the workforce. Rival AltSchool Africa adopted a comparable strategy in 2021, partnering with Michael and Cecilia Ibru University to award diploma certificates to its graduates.
“We are not here to replace universities,” said Sam Immanuel, CEO of Semicolon. “We’re here to complement them, to collaborate and amplify impact. We at Semicolon envision a future Africa that is home to a talented, thriving technology community; achieving this will require many different types of institutions working together.”
This partnership comes at a critical time for Nigeria, where the demand for skilled technology professionals far outpaces the supply. Universities in the country have also struggled to produce industry-ready graduates due to archaic curricula. By integrating practical, hands-on training with formal academic credentials, Semicolon and Tech-U are following a global trend in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and India, where universities and tech organisations collaborate to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“There is a disconnect between what is taught in universities and the world of work,” said Prof. Adesola Ajayi, Vice-Chancellor of Tech-U. “The world does not just need workers as much as it needs innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who can make a meaningful impact. This partnership aligns with the university’s motto of ‘Developing Brains, Training Hands.’”
Founded by Sam and Ashley Immanuel in 2019, Semicolon has maintained close ties with the academic sector from its inception. Through its collaboration with Henley Business School at the University of Reading, Semicolon students have had access to business and entrepreneurship courses since 2019. The organisation has also previously worked with Lagos Business School.
Semicolon graduates approximately 150 students annually, with roughly one-third lacking a tertiary degree, according to its COO Ashley Immanuel. She expects that some alumni will benefit from the new partnership immediately, while more are expected to pursue degrees as Semicolon expands its university collaborations.
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