𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬-𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠
The CEO of the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA), Jacinta Akatsa, has underscored the critical role played by digital skills in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Speaking during the opening of the 6th CEMASTEA STEM Boot Camp, which runs from 2nd to 6th December 2024 at the institution in Karen, Akatsa highlighted how technology is revolutionising every aspect of daily life, from communication and work to shopping and education.
“Technology is more than just a tool; it is the foundation of how we communicate, innovate, and advance in today’s world,” she stated.
Digital literacy has evolved from a luxury to an essential skill for the next generation of leaders and innovators, added Akatsa.
The CEO further stated that mastering areas such as robotics, creative coding, mobile App development, 3D/graphic design, and the application of Mathematics and Science is no longer reserved for a few, adding that these skills are now critical for shaping the future workforce and opening up numerous opportunities in the growing digital economy.
“When you learn to design mobile Apps, programme robots, or apply mathematics and science to solve real-world problems, you’re not just learning technical skills,” Akatsa explained.
“You’re preparing yourself to be a part of a future where technology is at the heart of every industry. These skills open doors to countless career opportunities in a tech-driven world,” she said.
The non-residential CEMASTEA STEM Boot camp brought together students from Grade 4 to Form 4 nationwide, offering an immersive, hands-on experience in advanced technology fields such as robotics (Arduino, IoT, Ev3, and Spike), creative coding, mobile app development, and 3D graphic design.
The CEO stressed that the skills gained, including coding, inquiry-based learning, self-efficacy, and computational thinking, will not only support academic success but also prepare learners for future careers in technology, engineering, business, and other fields.
Akatsa’s message is clear: The next generation should not just consume technology but also create it. As the digital world evolves, focusing on acquiring and mastering these essential skills will be crucial in preparing young innovators for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Other than technical skills, the CEO revealed that the boot camp will foster creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
She encouraged learners to seize the opportunity to become future tech innovators, engineers, developers, and leaders, noting that the skills gained will empower them to become tech entrepreneurs and game-changers who will shape the future.
“The skills will enable you to become the next generation of tech-entrepreneurs and game-changers who will shape the future,” she said.
The CEO further assured learners of the institution’s commitment to creating a supportive and interactive environment where they can freely explore, experiment, and ask questions without the fear of failure.
“Learning thrives in an environment where learners are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas, and experiment without fear of failure,” she stated.
Akatsa emphasised the critical role educators, mentors, and facilitators play in guiding and inspiring learners throughout their career journey in the institution, saying, “They are here to support you every step of the way, helping you unlock your potential and encouraging you to push the boundaries of what you can achieve.”
The CEO encouraged learners to embrace collaboration and teamwork, emphasising that learning from one another is just as crucial as learning from instructors.
“Teamwork and collaboration are vital in the tech world, where peers enrich each other’s experiences,” she said.
The learners, working in groups, have been assigned to develop STEM projects and propose practical solutions. They will pitch their ideas on Friday, demonstrating how these solutions can address everyday challenges and enhance daily life.
