The Caribbean Science Foundation has introduced the Caribbean Computer Coding Workshops (C3W) initiative in response to the growing global importance of computer programming skills and the need to strengthen the region’s digital workforce.
Organizers note that coding is increasingly becoming a core skill for entry-level employment, similar to word processing and spreadsheets, as economies shift toward knowledge-based industries.
While other developing regions are expanding training in areas such as website development, mobile applications, and machine learning, the Caribbean is still working to close existing skills gaps and improve access to ICT education.
“The Caribbean continues to lag in this race,” states the CSF.
Consequently, the group’s workshops are designed to support the development of a future-ready technology workforce, with a focus on low-income and at-risk youth, girls and young women, and persons with disabilities.
Reportedly, the programme also aims to increase the number of skilled ICT workers in the region, encourage interest in science and engineering careers, and promote greater engagement with advanced computer science studies. It further seeks to stimulate innovation and support the growth of technology-based entrepreneurship.
Overall, CSF says that C3W is intended to help prepare students for further studies in STEM disciplines and strengthen the region’s ability to compete in the global digital economy.
Anticipated Benefits of the Coding Workshops, listed by the Caribbean Science Foundation
- A raised awareness and increased opportunities for more persons to consider science and engineering as career options
- Better preparation of our students for university study in the STEM disciplines
- A more appropriately trained future knowledge-based workforce – more graduates with enhanced skill sets and qualifications will obtain entry level positions in the workplace (especially at-risk youth)
- Promotion of more technology-based entrepreneurship, and more self-employment opportunities for our youth
- Eventual formation of more globally competitive ICT companies that could bring in more foreign exchange
- Regional mobilization onto a path to catch up with the more developed countries in the ICT areas
- Ignition and nurturing of the inventiveness in our youth so that the next “Google” has a reasonable probability of coming out of the Caribbean
For more information, visit the Caribbean Science Foundation website.
A few years ago I took a leap of faith on a wing and a prayer to try my mind and hands at a Computer Programming course.
Other than a brief overview from a family friend who had ventured into the field of Systems Programming, I had no tangible expectation or idea of what laid ahead.
Fast forward to now, I can certainly attest that God truly led me down the right career path. Many of the I.T specialists I have crossed paths with over my career have a similar story of graduating high school or college without a concrete career plan.
Many of us had no idea about the many exciting and lucrative career paths the I.T field offered. A host of exciting opportunities are available to collaborate remotely with coworkers across the globe on challenging projects and problem resolution.
The I.T field has rapidly evolved from a curiosity of bits and bytes to being the lynchpin and engine of all global commercial and non- commercial sectors.
It is a good start in exposing our students in the field of coding. Every effort should be put in place to help students achieve that skill. Private companies should do their part in the financing of the delivery of those classes to the students throughout the Caribbean. Let us all aid in the scientific development of our students. Remember, they are the future leaders.
Excellent initiative!