Canon Central and North Africa has announced a strategic partnership with Rolof Computer Academy aimed at empowering Nigerian youth and fostering creativity through various educational initiatives. This collaboration will activate educational programs such as the Canon Academy Juniors Programme, Miraisha Programme, Canon Print Hub, and Canon Academy, marking a significant effort to provide practical experiences and job opportunities for young people in Nigeria.
Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director at Canon Central and North Africa, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey alongside Rolof Computer Academy. Together, we aim to empower Nigerian youth with more than just technical photography skills. We aspire to provide them with immersive experiences, moments of discovery, and opportunities for personal growth. Through photography, we hope to broaden their creativity and instill in them a sense of confidence and purpose.”
Ghani highlighted Canon’s commitment to the philosophy of Kyosei, a Japanese concept that emphasizes living and working together for the common good. “Kyosei embodies our belief in fostering harmony, collaboration, and mutual respect within our global community,” he explained. “By partnering with Rolof Computer Academy, Canon continues its mission to educate and motivate individuals to make a positive impact in the world.”
A unique aspect of this joint initiative is the integration of five workshops scheduled from July 23 to September 3, 2024, within the Rolof Summer Programme at Rolof Computer Academy in Warri, Nigeria. This cohesive approach offers participants a unified learning experience where creativity and technology converge seamlessly.
The workshops cater to diverse learners, ranging from children to adults starting out in photography. Led by Canon-certified trainers, these interactive sessions are tailored for two age groups: 8-16 years under the Canon Academy Juniors Programme, and 18-35 years for the Street Photography Workshop under Canon Academy and the Canon Miraisha Programme.
The Canon Academy Juniors Programme focuses on nurturing creativity and empowering young minds through concise and interactive sessions designed to inspire a love for photography in children. Participants will also engage in arts and crafts activities, including Canon Creative Park, which offers paper crafting opportunities to unleash artistic talents and create unique masterpieces.
Targeted at participants aged 18-35 years, the Canon Miraisha Programme aims to enhance professional development and promote job opportunities in Africa for photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and print business owners.
Mr. Lucky Ofuafor, Director of Rolof Computer Academy, emphasized the partnership’s significance in advancing education and pioneering innovative opportunities within the community of Warri, Nigeria. “Through this collaboration, we are dedicated to empowering the youth with the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to thrive in an ever-changing world,” he stated.
Rolof Computer Academy, known for its educational excellence in computer science and engineering, hosts an annual summer camp for children in Warri, Nigeria. With a team of highly skilled professionals, the academy supports businesses in navigating the digital landscape while fostering educational growth across diverse sectors.