A group of 30 high school girls completed a computer course, which is seen as a launch pad into their technology profession. The girls are part of the SheCanCode cohort sponsored by Igire Rwanda Organisation in partnership with the US Embassy in Kigali. During the graduation ceremony that took place at Adventist University of Central Africa, American Corner, Gishushu, graduates presented their projects that intend to provide solutions to the problems Rwandans are facing. Some of the projects included; “Save a child”, which is aimed at supporting the needy kids. Another one is “Crop market”, which seeks to link farmers to buyers while the “Pregnancy care” project intends provide information to pregnant women about proper health care. Another, “Smart Bus,” aims to solve issues of time wastage while waiting for buses. This app will help you apply and secure for a bus seat even before you reach the bus park. In her speech, Marissa Rollens, the Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, Kigali, urged graduates to keep developing their projects but not relaxing just because the course has ended. “Our aim is to empower women and girls with basic skills required for the technology job market, connect them to other companies for internship and job opportunities,” said Innocent Mbanda, the Chief Executive, SheCanCode cohort. He added that, for girls who have interest and commitment to learn, this is course that has the potential to impact to their lives and bridge the technology divide. Mbanda further said that students are taught to develop web and mobile applications, design thinking, mentorship, programme languages such as CSS, HTML, JavaScript, and JS frameworks, programming concept and fundamental skills in entrepreneurship. According to Joy Uwase, one of the graduates, she has gained skills in coding, web developing as well as layout and graphic designing. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
