Brilliant and talented teenager Zainab, like many Nigerian kids, aspired to become a doctor—a prestigious and lucrative profession with minimal unemployment after graduation. However, her dreams were hindered by the government’s age restrictions on higher education.
Restricted by age limitations, Zainab turned to the rapidly growing tech industry, which has been gaining significant traction in recent years. She shares her journey in this interview with The Nation.
Congratulations on your graduation from ALX Software Engineering! How does it feel to reach this milestone at such a young age?
Thank you! It feels amazing. When I started this journey, I never imagined graduating in software engineering before 16. My original dream was medicine, but life steered me toward software engineering—a twist I now see as a blessing. I’ve learned from top experts worldwide, earning over 30 certifications in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. This experience has broadened my perspective and inspired me to integrate AI with medicine to solve real-world healthcare challenges.
You finished secondary school at just 12 years old, which is impressive. How did that happen?
I was fortunate to complete secondary school early due to an accelerated education. With a deep passion for learning, particularly in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, I took the JAMB exam in 2023 and scored 262, confident in my chances of studying medicine. However, I was devastated to discover that Nigeria’s minimum university enrollment age of 16 prevented my admission.
That must have been tough. How did you cope with the setback?
It was incredibly challenging because becoming a medical doctor had been my dream since childhood. My father always called me “Doctor Zainab” and encouraged me to pursue medicine, believing there weren’t enough Muslim female doctors in our hospitals. When I learned I would have to wait four years before starting university, I felt completely lost.
At first, I had no interest, but my father suggested exploring software engineering while I waited. He explained how artificial intelligence is transforming medicine and convinced me that merging AI with healthcare could help solve complex challenges. That idea resonated with me, so I decided to give it a shot.
You have earned over 30 certifications in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. Can you tell us more about your learning journey?
Absolutely! One of the most exciting aspects of my journey has been learning from renowned experts worldwide. My educational experience includes:
- ALX Software Engineering Program – Focused on front-end development.
- Techvinson Academy – Concentrated on back-end software engineering.
- KemonAI – Specialized in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
- Udemy, RITA Africa, SheCodes, and GreatLearning – Completed various courses in AI, machine learning, web development, and other tech-related fields.
Through these platforms, I’ve built a solid foundation in programming languages like C, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, and Python. I’ve also developed expertise in frameworks and libraries such as React and Bootstrap, along with development tools like Git and GitHub. Additionally, I’ve worked with preprocessor technologies like SASS. The diverse teaching methods and advanced topics I’ve explored have shaped me into a well-rounded software developer.
That’s amazing! What projects have you worked on so far?
I’ve applied my skills through various projects, including;
- A Quote Generator – It creates random inspirational quotes.
- E-commerce website. Online store to sell and buy products
- Real Estate Company App. For real estate companies
- A Poem Generator – This one uses AI to craft poetry.
- Chatbots for Schools and Law Firms – These automate communication for various institutions.
- Web and Mobile Applications – I developed these using modern technologies like React and Python.
These projects have given me valuable hands-on experience in problem-solving and innovation, equipping me for greater challenges in the field.
Even with all these accomplishments in software engineering, you still want to study medicine. How do you plan to merge both fields?
Absolutely, my passion for medicine is still strong. However, I now have a broader vision—I don’t just want to be a doctor; I want to integrate AI into healthcare. AI is already transforming medicine, from disease diagnosis to robotic surgeries and advanced research. My goal is to specialize in leveraging AI for medical innovations.
I’m currently exploring courses that combine AI and medicine, but I haven’t found any programs in Nigeria that offer this blend. That’s why I’m considering international universities where I can study Artificial Intelligence or a program integrating AI with healthcare. If given the opportunity, I would be thrilled to accept it.
You’re currently 14. Are you planning to wait until you turn 16 to apply for a university in Nigeria, or do you have other plans?
With two years until I turn 16, I don’t want to sit idle. I’m eager to keep learning about AI and medicine. In the meantime, I plan to deepen my research, take on advanced projects, and explore scholarship opportunities abroad. If offered a spot at an international university, I would gladly accept it, as I want to pursue both programming and medicine. My goal is to find a program that merges these two passions.
You’re also pursuing an ND program at Transformation College of Business and Technology. How do you manage to balance all these commitments?
It all comes down to effective time management and discipline. I carefully plan my schedule and set clear priorities. Some days are challenging, but staying focused on my goals keeps me motivated. Plus, having a strong support system, especially from my family, has been invaluable.
Looking back, do you think not getting into university at 12 was actually a blessing in disguise?
Absolutely! At first, it felt like a major setback, but now I see it differently. If I had gone straight into medicine, I might never have discovered software engineering and AI. Now, I have a unique perspective, bridging both fields. This combination allows me to make a meaningful impact in healthcare beyond traditional practices. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and this journey is shaping me for something greater.
Finally, what advice do you have for young people facing unexpected challenges in their career paths?
My advice is simple: don’t see setbacks as failures but as opportunities for redirection. If things don’t go as planned, stay positive, explore new possibilities, and keep learning. Sometimes, the unexpected path leads to the greatest rewards. Stay curious, embrace new knowledge, and never let go of your dreams.
Thank you, Zainab! Your story is incredibly inspiring. We can’t wait to see the amazing things you will achieve.
Thank you! I’m excited for the future and eager to make a meaningful impact.