Tech Expert Calls for End to Labelling Young Talents as Criminals
A renowned tech expert, Hanson Johnson, has appealed to security agencies to stop mistaking young tech-savvy individuals for criminals. Speaking in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, Johnson described the constant arrest and detention of these young professionals as a case of “mistaken identity.”
Johnson, the CEO of Start Innovation Hub, regretted that the society at large and many security operatives have failed to recognize the legitimate work of young professionals, often mistaking their success for illicit activities, leading to harassment and unjust treatment. He emphasized the need for proper education for security personnel to distinguish between those genuinely contributing to the tech industry and those who are not.
The tech expert highlighted that some young people are using technology to improve their lives, and that there are more intelligent ways to identify those who are genuine rather than resorting to harassment. He also expressed his commitment to educating security personnel, ensuring they conduct their duties with intelligence rather than suspicion.
Johnson also stressed the importance of education on the part of both the young people and security operatives. He partnered with international organizations, the Federal Government, and corporate entities to train young Nigerians on tech-related skills. He mentioned some of the partnerships, including the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) project and the 3 Million Technical Talent Program (3MTT).
By educating security personnel and distinguishing between genuine tech talents and those who are not, Johnson hopes to put an end to the labeling of young tech-savvy individuals as criminals.
