ThinkYoung, in collaboration with Boeing, is poised to unveil its acclaimed Coding School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Scheduled for April 20-21 and April 27-28, 2024, this pioneering event marks a significant milestone in the expansion of educational opportunities for young Tanzanians. Aimed at students aged 12-17, the ThinkYoung Coding School promises an enriching curriculum that spans computer programming lessons, robotics, drones, and aviation workshops — all offered free of charge.
The initiative stems from a successful track record of STEM programs co-organised by ThinkYoung and Boeing in other African nations, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda. Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, highlighted the profound impact of these programs, expressing enthusiasm for replicating their success in Tanzania and beyond. Over the last eight years, these coding schools have empowered over 1,400 teenagers, 60% of whom have been girls, bridging the digital skills gap and fostering a more inclusive digital economy.
Andrea Gerosa, the visionary founder of ThinkYoung, emphasized the importance of introducing Tanzanian youth to these educational programs. With 14 years of experience in running global education initiatives, Gerosa and his team are committed to ensuring that young people possess the necessary skills to navigate and excel in the digital world. This endeavor, supported by Boeing’s partnership, aims at making education accessible to all, promoting equality, and enabling young minds to harness the potential of technology.
Tanzania’s digital landscape is witnessing rapid growth, as indicated by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), which reports an average annual growth rate of 17% in internet subscriptions over the past five years. With 34 million internet subscribers as of June 2023, the country is focusing on enhancing internet connectivity for its youth and fostering STEM education. This strategic approach is crucial for nurturing a robust digital economy and opening up new opportunities for both businesses and individuals.
The introduction of the ThinkYoung Coding School to Tanzania is a timely initiative that aligns with the nation’s aspirations to empower its young population with digital literacy and skills. As Tanzania strides towards a more connected and technologically advanced future, programs like these are instrumental in shaping the next generation of innovators and leaders. Interested participants are encouraged to apply and become part of this transformative journey towards a brighter, digital future. For more information and to apply, please visit: www.codingsummerschool.com.
