Last year we partnered with the DirectEd Development Foundation to introduce an intensive coding boot camp aimed at recent high school graduates. This three-part program provides a pathway for students to learn the basics of coding and programming. From last year’s cohort of 14, two students successfully advanced to sit for the main DirectEd exam, subsequently securing internships.
One such success story is that of a junior developer, James, who is actively using his learned skills. James was one of the two students who sat for the main DirectEd exam, where he did well. In September 2023, he joined Lido Nation as a Software Developer Intern, where he worked on coding until February 2024 while also freelancing at Hostraha, a web-hosting company in Nairobi. He is currently a student at Egerton University, where he is working on something really interesting. Together with his friend, they are working on a startup company! The company will offer a cooperative approach where individuals and groups can own properties seamlessly. They started the coding work almost a month ago and they hope to successfully pull off this entrepreneurial venture.
Recently, a new crop of our high school graduates took the same coding course. DirectEd conducted the Introductory Course, a week-long coding training program. Introducing participants to the fundamentals of programming using Python, this course attracted 18 students eager to embark on their coding journey. Using digital platforms such as Zoom, Google Classroom, Piazza, and Notion, students engaged in immersive learning experiences, accessing a diverse range of resources including PDF modules, instructional videos, and feedback forms. Daily check-ins and workshops facilitated active participation and knowledge retention, ensuring a dynamic learning environment.
The end of the Introductory Course was marked by a rigorous examination taken by 14 dedicated students on January 13th, 2024. All 14 students successfully transitioned to the next phase of the DirectEd boot camp. DirectEd held a virtual closing ceremony that served as a testament to their dedication and achievements.
By creating relationships with outside institutions to provide quality training programs, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our students.
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