RCCG set to hold the first hackathon by a major pentecostal church

RCCG overseen by Pastor E.A Adeboye, one of the world's most influential men is set to hold what can be termed the first-ever church-led hackathon in November.

RCCG – Redeemed Christian Church of God (AKA Redeem)

The hackathon which is an initiative of the youth arm of the church (Youth and Young Adults – YAYA) would hold from November 1 – 3.

Nigeria is a religious state with about 95% belonging to either Christianity or Islam. However, when it comes to other sectors of the economy they tend to take a back-seat. Yet, RCCG has shown a drive to contribute to what is a "dreaded sector of the economy" – Politics, by backing a Pastor in his run for Vice President. The effectiveness can be questioned but we imagine it is a good step forward to get more stakeholders involved in moving Nigeria forward.

Redeem's Kingdom Hackathon is focused on income redistribution and poverty eradication. In what would be a 72-hour session, they hope to mobilise ideas and solutions against extreme poverty and challenge the systems that keep people poor.

This hackathon would not be touted as volunteer or free although it is led by a not-for-profit organisation, as they have put forward 1.7 million naira up for grabs.

While poverty eradication is one of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), it is also a way for them to follow their faith and alleviate the poor out of the oppression of poverty.  

In collaboration with innovative nonprofits and churches, we’ll write code and proffer solution to help release the oppressed, teach God’s Word, heal the sick, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and support the church and the body of Christ. – RCCG YAYA

You can register to take part in the hackathon on their website.

We expect more religious institutions to follow suit and pave the way for faster development in the country.

Update, 10:42pm — A previous version of this article wrongly reported Pastor Adeboye as the founder of RCCG when in fact, he was just the General Overseer (GO). RCCG was founded by Pa Josiah Akindayomi. We are sorry for the inconvenience this might have caused you, our reader. Thanks.