Google to launch game developers program in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana in partnership with Maliyo Games

Nigerian mobile game developer, Maliyo Games is collaborating with Google to host #GameUp Bootcamp in Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria.

The Bootcamp is a game developer training program aimed at preparing young people for career success in the global gaming market.

During the program, participants will learn to create mobile games for the Google Play store with support and mentoring provided by Maliyo Games.

They will also learn how to refine, package and develop casual Android games using a modern self-paced and project-based learning system.

Speaking on the program, the founder of Maliyo Games, Hugo Obi, expressed excitement working with Google to extend its in-house training program to hundreds of young people in Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria.

He added that Africa has a huge business opportunity for creatives which aligns with Maliyo’s goal of embedding the continent’s vibrant culture into video games.

“The African continent, with over 500 million mobile phone users, represents a massive business opportunity for people who have the creative and technical skills. That is the need we are addressing with this bootcamp. Our goal is to embed Africa’s vibrant culture into video games through storylines, character development, immersive environments, captivating sounds and strong visuals.”

Hugo Obi, founder of Maliyo Games

5-month program

The inaugural training program will run virtually for 5 months from August to December 2021.

According to Maliyo Games, the bootcamp is looking for individuals with basic programming knowledge or a computer science background. It added that the most desirable candidates will have knowledge of one of the following programming languages, C#, C++, HTML or JavaScript.

Students who reside in Nigeria, Ghana or Kenya are eligible to apply and they must have a personal computer. 

Selected participants for the #GameUp Bootcamp will have instructors who will periodically assess and evaluate students performance.

It will also support participants with valuable peer support from the African gaming community and offer a generous data allowance to enable students to access course materials and download the relevant software.

Applications are due by the 2^nd of August, 2021.