By: Dorothy Klutse
The transformative power of technology lies at the heart of the second Coding Caravan 2024, held on 19th June at Ghanata Senior High School in Dodowa, Greater Accra Region, Ghana. Organized by the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH) and the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications (GCT), the event embraced the theme “Breaking Barriers: Coding, Leadership, and Inclusion for All.” This year’s initiative aimed to spark a passion for ICT among 200 students and 29 teachers by introducing them to the fundamentals of coding and hands-on technology projects.
This caravan started with an air of excitement as participants eagerly anticipated diving into the world of coding. The event’s agenda was packed with interactive sessions designed to be educational and engaging, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.
A key highlight was the keynote speeches and engagements with distinguished guests. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunication, delivered an inspiring keynote address. He emphasized the practical applications of ICT in everyday life and encouraged students to think creatively about how technology could address challenges in their communities. Specifically, he highlighted the issue of sand winning, urging students to use their new skills to develop innovative solutions.
Miss Harriet Lomotey, the Director of Education for Shai Osudoku District, also addressed the participants, stressing the importance of seizing the opportunity to learn coding and other ICT skills. Her message resonated deeply, highlighting the potential for ICT to open new career paths and opportunities.
The engagement between students and speakers was a testament to the event’s success. Students asked thoughtful questions, shared their aspirations, and received valuable insights from the experts. This interaction reinforced the day’s lessons and provided a motivational boost, encouraging students to pursue their interests in ICT confidently.
Interactive Sessions
The event featured two concurrent sessions focused on different aspects of ICT. The first session introduced students to the basics of coding using Scratch, a visual programming tool developed by MIT. This hands-on approach demystified coding, making it accessible and fun. Deborah Ofori Dartey and Blessing Momoh, both instructors of IIPGH led this session, guiding the students as they experimented with different commands, watched their creations come to life, and shared their achievements.
Following the coding session, attention shifted to 3D printing. Deborah and Blessing continued to engage the students, who were fascinated by the technology that could transform digital designs into physical objects. They learned about the principles of 3D printing, observed a demonstration, and had the chance to print small objects themselves. This experience broadened their understanding of ICT and showcased the tangible outcomes of digital creativity.
The highlight of the practical sessions was the introduction to the Internet of Things. Dorothy Klutse, also an instructor of IIPGH took charge of this session, designed to teach the basics of electronics and programming through simple projects. Students were guided through building a functional traffic light system, a project that combined coding, wiring, and problem-solving. This hands-on activity captivated participants, reinforcing their newly acquired skills and demonstrating real-world applications.
Another instructor, Gabriel Nii Amarh led an interactive session with the teachers, focusing on Scratch. This session aimed to equip teachers with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate coding into their curricula, extending the impact of the Coding Caravan beyond the single event.
Impact and Feedback
The impact of the Coding Caravan 2024 was evident in the enthusiasm and active participation of students. Initially unfamiliar with Scratch and IoT concepts, students quickly adapted, demonstrating a remarkable capacity for learning and problem-solving. The hands-on sessions allowed them to apply their knowledge practically, fostering a deeper understanding of the material.
Some selected ICT teachers from the district played a crucial role in supporting the teaching sessions. Their presence ensured that students received personalized guidance and assistance, enhancing the overall learning experience. The collaboration between IIPGH tutors and these teachers exemplified the community-focused approach of the Coding Caravan, emphasizing the importance of local involvement in educational initiatives.
Positive feedback from both students and teachers highlighted the event’s success. Students expressed excitement about the interactive lessons and the new skills they acquired. Teachers appreciated the interactive session and the opportunity to enhance their ICT knowledge. The event sparked a passion for coding among students and provided educators with valuable resources to continue teaching ICT concepts in their schools.
Conclusion
The Coding Caravan 2024 in Shai-Osudoku District was a resounding success, embodying the theme “Breaking Barriers: Coding, Leadership, and Inclusion for All.” As the Coding Caravan continues its journey across Ghana, the impact of events like these will ripple through communities, inspiring a new generation of tech-savvy individuals ready to tackle future challenges. The success of the Coding Caravan 2024 in Osudoku District is a testament to the power of education, innovation, and inclusion in shaping a brighter future for all.
The writer is a digital skills training supervisor (IIPGH). For comments, contact [email protected] or [email protected]
