In a lively suburb of Lagos, Basil Okpara Jr. crafted his own digital world. He captivated the world with his impressive repertoire of over 30 mobile games which he built at only 9 years old using the innovative programming platform Scratch 2. This user-friendly application empowers creators to build engaging games, animations, and stories, and Basil has fully embraced its capabilities. One of his creations features a clever bat that players must catch as it emerges from its hiding spot, showcasing his growing skills in game development.
Basil who is now 14yrs old, journey into the world of programming began in March 2019 when his father enrolled him in an inspiring five-day boot camp organized by Codefest International. Aimed at children aged 5 to 15, the camp introduced participants to cutting-edge technologies such as robotics and virtual reality, igniting Basil’s passion for game creation. His father, Basil Okpara Sr., recalling his son’s early obsession with mobile games during an interview with CNN, had initially gifted him a tablet at the tender age of 4. Little did they both know that a moment of frustration would spark a remarkable transformation.
After being scolded for playing games excessively, Basil’s father impulsively challenged him to create his own games, a suggestion that resonated deeply with the young boy. Inspired and motivated, Basil took the advice to heart, diving headfirst into learning the fundamentals of game design. With the support of his parents, he soon transitioned from a player to a creator, acquiring a laptop and honing his skills to breathe life into his imaginative concepts.
One of Basil’s standout creations, titled “Mosquito Mash,” is currently available on the Google Play Store, further showcasing his burgeoning talent and the engaging hide-and-seek game featuring a sneaky bat. As he dreams of becoming a scientist in the future, Basil continues to craft games that reflect his interests and creativity, often naming them according to their themes.
Basil’s story is not an isolated one; it reflects a broader trend of young innovators emerging from Africa, where increased investment from tech giants such as Google and Microsoft is nurturing a new generation of coders and tech enthusiasts. With each game Basil creates, he not only keeps people entertained but also inspires others to harness their creativity and explore the limitless possibilities of technology.
