Various Edtech innovations in Africa are providing streamlined training programs and boot camps, equipping individuals with practical skills and offering global opportunities to address the digital skills gap problem. One such platform, FikrCamp, an online training platform launched in Somaliland, offers short courses in web development, coding, UI/UX design, and product management, targeting young individuals speaking Somali.
Fikrcamp's History
Fikrcamp, located in Hargeisa, was launched in February 2021 and has since achieved notable success. The platform has secured $40,000 in funding and generated $36,800 in revenue. The revenues were intended to give the organization a six-month operating budget.. Following its launch, the first batch of 16 students completed the program, with 10 of them securing employment through internships or full-time jobs. A total of 186 students have participated in over seven cohorts, with 117 of them gaining employment. Co-founder and director of product and operations at Fikrcamp, Ridwan Tukale, stated that these numbers demonstrate the platform's effectiveness in bridging the digital skills gap in Africa.
Fikrcamp has also expanded in Ethiopia and plans to provide digital skills to 500 Somali-speaking and 7,500 Amharic-speaking students in Ethiopia using its unique model for diverse regions and languages. Ridwan Tukale claims the goal is to expand our operations, boost student enrolments, and maintain a strong impact on Africa’s IT education environment. Despite the challenges of expanding into new regions with distinct cultures and languages, Fikrcamp remains committed to upholding its key mission and efficacy while adapting to these changes. Fikrcamp recognizes the significance of cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs and values. Before embarking on any new venture in a different region, thorough research is conducted, and partnerships are formed with local experts to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances. This approach ensures that the program is culturally relevant and appropriately respectful of the local context. One of the partners from Addis Ababa, who is also based there, conducted extensive market research for the launch in Ethiopia.
Fikrcamp’s Unique Teaching Model
Fikrcamp recognizes the importance of tailoring its training programs to the local context in Somalia and the unique challenges faced by Somali-speaking youth. To ensure that the content is both accessible and culturally relevant, Fikrcamp offers courses in the Somali language. By prioritizing hands-on learning through projects, students gain practical experience and build a portfolio of technical skills that showcase their abilities to potential employers. Additionally, Fikrcamp understands the value of soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking, which are crucial for success in the digital space. While tuition fees, which can be paid upfront, quarterly or monthly, are charged for training and resources, Fikrcamp provides scholarships and financial aid to those in need or who demonstrate merit. The platform has established partnerships with employers, which can result in fees being covered or sponsorships for skilled individuals. Furthermore, Fikrcamp generates revenue through customized corporate training programs for organizations
Fikrcamp’s Mission
Fikrcamp’s curriculum is routinely reviewed to ensure alignment with industry trends, new technology, and market demands. They collaborate with IT employers to guarantee that graduates are well-prepared. They additionally encourage entrepreneurial thinking, preparing students to start tech-related firms and make decisions in the digital economy. Fikrcamp graduates had a 63% employment rate following graduation, confirming the boot camp’s proficiency in generating job-ready professionals.
As co-founder, director, and lead instructor Abdulladif Roble puts it, “Fikrcamp is committed to its mission. The goal of the boot camp is to provide African youths with the necessary digital skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the industry.
Nim’an Bashir, a graduate of Fikrcamp, found the four-month program to be more valuable than his three years at university. He attributes this to the guidance of Abdulladif Roble, the founder and lead instructor of Fikrcamp, as well as the mentors he worked with. Bashir developed not only technical skills but also strengthened his critical thinking, problem-solving, and logic abilities. He claimed to have initially struggled with imposter syndrome, comparing himself to more experienced coders, but he overcame this challenge by pushing through and building his skills.
Another graduate of Fikrcamp, Nemo Rashed, described the experience during the program as a watershed moment in her life. She acquired essential skills during the intensive program, including networking, interpersonal communication, and career development. The boot camp also honed her critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning abilities, which have proven useful in her studies and future endeavours .
Conclusion
Fikrcamp dedication to fostering local and home-grown tech talent is evident in its innovative teaching approach. Unlike traditional tech education providers, the boot camp teaches tech courses in the student’s native language. This approach improves the learning experience and creates an inclusive environment for students. They go a step further to bridge the gap between education and the industry by connecting these skilled individuals to prospective employers in both the international and local markets
.jpeg)
No comments:
Post a Comment