Renowned music artist Don Jazzy has pledged a significant contribution of N20 million towards "The Tech Access Project," an initiative focused on empowering 10,000 Nigerian youths with laptops. This ambitious project is spearheaded by Ayilola Ayotomiwa and three other individuals.
Don Jazzy publicly responded to a direct appeal for support made by the initiative's conveners via X (formerly Twitter) on Friday. The appeal sought his support, mentorship, and collaboration for their digital empowerment efforts.
"I’m reaching out to share a dream that was born right here among young, hopeful Nigerians, The Tech Access Project, an initiative dedicated to empowering 10,000 youths with 10,000 laptops," stated a portion of the conveners' message.
While commending the initiative, Don Jazzy acknowledged the substantial undertaking of providing 10,000 laptops. He expressed his current capacity to support the project with N20 million and a promotional repost, encouraging other well-meaning Nigerians to contribute towards achieving the project's goal.
"Bro, I hail o. Your initiative is commendable. But sir, 10,000 laptops is not beans. At this time, I can only afford to support with 20 million Naira and a repost. Hopefully, some other well-meaning Nigerians can help achieve the goal," Don Jazzy wrote in his response.
Beyond his financial contribution, Don Jazzy committed to raising further awareness for the initiative and urged other Nigerians and associates to join in supporting its objectives.
The conveners of The Tech Access Project confirmed the receipt of Don Jazzy's donation in an X post on Saturday.
This digital empowerment project arrives at a critical time, addressing the need to support talented Nigerian youths who possess skills but require assistance to advance. The initiative aims to not only identify talent but also leverage these resources to contribute to Nigeria's growing digital economy.
The initiative has gained traction on X under the hashtag #10klaptopsproject, attracting significant public support and reposts from Nigerians.
The Vision Behind The Tech Access Project
The Tech Access Project is designed to equip young Nigerians with laptops, fostering their passion for technology, design, music production, and digital entrepreneurship. The ultimate aim is to empower them to bring their innovative ideas to fruition, creating value for themselves and for Nigeria.
According to the conveners - Ayilola Ayotomiwa, Folowosele Adeboye, Bolade Adenike Esan, and Oriyomi Soyoye - the project is dedicated to securing a brighter future for young Nigerians, particularly those with a strong ambition in technology who need a supportive push.
"We’re reaching out to partners and supporters to help make laptops accessible, through sponsorships, subsidised partnerships, or simply amplifying the message," Ayilola expressed in a public post.
As part of their outreach, the conveners have also engaged with other prominent Nigerians and companies on X, including DJ Cuppy, Davido, Adekunle Gold, Olamide, Victor Osimhen, and Chicken Republic. Additionally, VAAS Global, an edtech platform, has offered scholarship support to help equip the 10,000 beneficiaries with necessary tech skills.
As of Saturday, Ayilola reported that the project had successfully raised over N21 million. The specific details regarding the distribution of laptops will be announced once the full funding for the 10,000 devices is secured.