MTN imparts digital skills to Kampala pupils

By Vision Reporter  

 Building and programing a robot from scratch may sound like an impossible task in the minds of most primary school pupils and parents.

But MTN Uganda, in partnership with FundiBots a Ugandan based organization that focuses on robotics training in schools is aiming to change that mind-set.

The two organized a training camp, aimed at equipping Juniors aged between 9-12 years with skills that can enable them solve real-world problems through digital design.

The 3-day event dubbed the ‘MTN Junior’s Robotics Camp’ will have 50 children from 10 schools in Kampala with each school being represented by five children. The training commenced Friday at the MTN Towers.

According to Mapula Bodibe, MTN Uganda’s Chief Marketing Officer, the goal of the camp is to introduce and teach the children; digital skills used in the building of robots from a more practical, fun and open environment and in the process, expose them to new ways of thinking.

“MTN is proud to partner with Fundi Bots, which is a pioneer provider of robotics design training in Ugandan schools. Our intention is to create and inspire a new generation of Ugandan children to be the future problem solvers, innovators and change makers,” Bodibe said.

“We hope the children will leave the program with a new love and passion for design facilitated by innovations in the digital space. We also want them to know that anyone, regardless of age, gender or background can use digital platforms in a creative and innovative ways,” she added.

During the training, participants will be introduced to the principles of programming in an interactive and friendly environment. Fundi Bots Founder Solomon King Benge said he wants young people to develop a creative set of skills they can apply to solve issues specific to their lives.

The children will each receive a certificate of participation at the end of the 3-day event.

Primary schools participating:
1. Lohana Academy
2. Vine Academy
3.  Ntinda Primary School
4. Nakasero Primary School
5. Buganda Road Primary School
6 Kiswa Primary School7. Kitante Primary School
8. Daffodils Academy
9. Kampala Parents School
10.  St. Kizito Primary School