Digicel opens second computer coding class

21 October 2016, 12:00AM

Digicel will soon open a second CoderDojo with winners of its current artwork competition securing spots in the class. 

October marks one year since Digicel joined the CoderDojo network, a global movement of non-profit community based programs that teach young children basic coding and an understanding of technology. 

This has helped pave the way for children of Samoa to enter into and succeed in the world of technology. “I have been delighted to see the progress these children have made over the past year,” said Rory Condon, C.E.O of Digicel Samoa.

“They have moved from foundation skills to more sophisticated coding, website and application development. It is amazing how quickly they pick up these skills. Key to the success has been the focus learning in a fun environment.  “A second Dojo means that we can further share our passion for technology and open doors for more kids to join the movement.” 

Every Saturday from 10am – 12pm, our students have joined us at Digicel HQ in an informal, creative and social learning environment and the results of our first Dojo have spoken for themselves. 

Eugene Barker, CoderDojo facilitator and local IT expert says “the progress the kids have made is breathtaking. I remember seeing some struggle using the shift key and finding letters. Now these same kids are launching Notepad++, working with browsers, slinging code, and customizing websites”.

To kick-start enrolment for our second Dojo, Digicel has launched an artwork competition asking children aged 7 – 12 years old to think about what technology means to them and to put those thoughts to paper - the most creative drawings will win places in our second CoderDojo class in Apia on Saturday mornings 10 – 12pm.

“Digicel is investing in the future leaders of Samoa. We are developing a purpose built facility dedicated to learning. Digicel will provide all equipment, and children need no prior knowledge of computers, just an interest, dedication and a passion to learn!” said Rory Condon

“Digicel is passionate about helping our younger generation to learn how technology works at a young age in a supervised and fun environment. CoderDojo is a big part of Digicel’s focus on education as key to the future success of Samoa. With the project to build a fibre optic cable to Fiji just around the corner, internet access will become accessible to all. This provides great opportunities to the next generation of young Samoans.”

21 October 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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