By Rose Aba Akafo
Young technology enthusiasts between 7 and 15 years have showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills after completing weeks of training in coding, web development, 3D modelling and printing under the Orange Foundation’s Next Gen Summer Camp.
The participants received certificates at a ceremony held on August 28 at the Orange Digital Center, bringing together the young innovators, their trainers, parents and other stakeholders.
The August summer camp was designed to introduce children to digital skills while encouraging creativity, innovation and practical problem-solving.
Throughout the programme, participants were divided into three main classes, each focusing on a different area of technology.
Learning Through Coding
One of the groups received training in Scratch, a programming language developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that allows children to create interactive stories, games and animations.
Working in groups, the participants developed a range of projects using the platform.
Among their creations was a game titled “Flying Carrots,” which the young developers presented during the certification ceremony. The participants explained how they developed the game and demonstrated the different steps involved in bringing their idea to life.
Building Websites with Local Ideas
Another group, known as the Web Developers, focused on website development.
The participants were divided into six groups, with each team given the opportunity to develop a website around a topic of its choice.
Their projects reflected a mix of technology, culture, entertainment and everyday interests.
One group developed a website centred on Sierra Leonean fashion, showcasing aspects of local fashion and creativity.
Another team created an e-commerce website, while a third developed a football-themed platform featuring the history of football, profiles of football legends and other football-related content.
A separate group focused on Sierra Leonean culture and heritage, developing a website highlighting the country’s history, traditions and culture, its different tribes, historical and tourist sites, local foods and notable historical leaders.
Other participants developed a coding learning platform designed to introduce users to coding through directions and step-by-step guidance.
Another group created an educational project based on flashcards, demonstrating how digital tools can also be used to support learning.
Turning Ideas into 3D Solutions
The third class focused on 3D modelling and printing, where participants were encouraged to move beyond the computer screen and develop practical solutions.
The class was divided into four groups, with the young innovators designing and developing household items and gadgets.
Among their projects were a rainwater filter and a self-watering flower vase, alongside other household solutions.
The projects provided the participants with an opportunity to apply technology to everyday challenges while developing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Young Innovators Take the Stage
During the certification ceremony, the participants presented their projects before an audience, explaining the ideas behind their creations and demonstrating the skills they had acquired throughout the summer camp.
The presentations gave the young participants an opportunity not only to display what they had built, but also to explain the thinking and teamwork behind their projects.
Performances by some of the participants added to the celebratory atmosphere as families, trainers and stakeholders gathered to mark the completion of the programme.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants, recognising their efforts and achievements during the summer camp.
The Next Gen Summer Camp forms part of efforts to expose children to digital skills from an early age while creating opportunities for them to explore technology through practical and creative projects.
Through activities ranging from coding games and website development to 3D design and printing, the programme provided participants with an opportunity to move from simply using technology to creating with it.
