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By Benson Michael
Michael Akinyemi, co-founder of CodeBridge Youth Initiative and a leading voice in software engineering, delivered a compelling message on the urgency of early tech education during the ‘Harnessing Tech Education from an Early Age’ summit held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Sunderland, United Kingdom.
Hosted at Cornhill Road, Sunderland, SR5 1RU, the event was a focus group discussion with parents in Sunderland and environs, bringing together educators, technologists, and community leaders to explore how digital literacy can be integrated from an early stage in a child’s learning journey.
Organised by CodeBridge Youth Initiative, the summit was designed to open dialogue with parents and raise awareness of the role they play in shaping children’s tech futures.
The gathering was also a chance to bridge generational gaps, helping parents better understand the evolving digital landscape their children are growing up in.
Discussions touched on mobile safety, online learning habits, and building trust around screen use. Many parents appreciated the opportunity to learn in a welcoming, judgement-free environment.
Michael Akinyemi, who served as one of the panelists, spoke passionately about his journey and why children must be introduced to technology well before secondary school.
“We cannot afford to delay. The world is being shaped by those who understand digital tools early,” he said.
“Introducing our children to technology is how we prepare them not just to survive but to lead.”
Michael highlighted examples from CodeBridge, where early-stage students have built working prototypes, contributed to basic app development, and participated in global tech competitions.
He also discussed the social value of teaching code and problem-solving early, noting how it builds confidence and unlocks creativity.
“The earlier we teach our kids to think like creators, the sooner they’ll stop seeing limitations and start spotting opportunities,” Michael said.
Parents in attendance shared feedback, challenges, and hopes for their children’s futures. Many voiced concerns about screen time, lack of resources, and the need for safe, supervised learning spaces.
The event created a platform for those conversations to happen openly, with actionable solutions discussed.
Michael encouraged collaboration across communities to create after-school programs, tech meetups for children, and parent-led initiatives that make tech education fun and family-inclusive.
He reaffirmed that learning to code should not be reserved for a privileged few but accessible to every child, regardless of background or location.
As the focus group wrapped up, the energy was hopeful and forward-thinking. For Michael Akinyemi, the message was clear: every child deserves a head start in the digital world, and it begins with the support of informed, inspired parents.
