The TechKobwa curriculum goes beyond basic computer science, and includes lessons in goal setting, public speaking, and community development.
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]echKobwa, a 2 week camp in Rwanda, is helping bridge the gender gap in technology fields by encouraging young girls and computer science teachers from rural areas to explore the field of information communications technology (ICT).
Created by Peace Corps Volunteers in 2013, TechKobwa brings together Rwandan ICT professionals and expert trainers from IBM and Michigan State University to conduct lessons in computer science, electronics, and other STEM-related topics.
“TechKobwa has only been possible with so many partners in and out of Rwanda dedicated to helping Rwandan girls create a better future for themselves and their country,” says Elizabeth Turner, founding member and Program Coordinator of TechKobwa.
“ICT fields in Rwanda are growing fast and we want girls to be a big part of that development,” she adds.
TechKobwa has already trained over 150 girls and 30 teachers and will expand this year, thanks to the encouragement of Rwanda’s Ministry of Youth and ICT. The first camp will begin training teachers on 26 July with students arriving 31 July at the IPRC West campus in Kibuye, Karongi. Ten schools have been selected to participate, representing districts all over Rwanda. Each school will send one ICT teacher and 6 secondary female students. A second camp is planned for December 2016.
See Also: The Gendered Internet: Looking at Platforms in India
TechKobwa’s aim is to promote female participation in STEM careers and encourage girls to continue education at the university level. In 2013 it was reported by Rwandan Education Board that female secondary students outnumbered male students in science concentrations, but the University of Rwanda reported in 2015 that only a third of their students were female.
“We can empower women in our society by providing equal opportunities, encouraging them to [take] part in leadership and decision making [roles], and encouraging them to further their studies,” says teacher at G.S. St. Nicolas Milton Ndyisenga, whose school will be attending the camp in July.
The TechKobwa curriculum goes beyond basic computer science, and includes lessons in goal setting, public speaking, and community development as well as a career panel featuring prominent Rwandan women already working in STEM fields.
See Also: Making the Most of Mobile Phones
The Rwandan government has made promotion of gender equality and gender empowerment a primary aim, working closely with various development partners, including the United States Peace Corps. Peace Corps has long been a supporter for girls in ICT and provides primary administrative funding for TechKobwa. Additional funding support comes from IBM, Michigan State University, and the Ministry of Youth and ICT. Creation Hill and Akilah Institute for Women are planning partners.
