Overwhelming response to ‘Guyanese Girl Code’ Training Programme

DPI, Guyana, Monday, April 2, 2018

The Ministry of Public Telecommunications is seeking to expand the ‘Guyanese Girl Code’ training programme to accommodate more participants interested in coding.

The programme, which initially catered for 20 girls, has received applications from over 50 young ladies, excited to be part of the initiative. Outreach Coordinator at the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, Donnella Collison said the training is expected to commence on April 7, 2018, but may have to be rescheduled to April 11, 2018, to make provisions for the additional girls.

“Since we received so many applications, we are now looking at a way to do more sessions to expand and take in more girls who want to code.”

She said the programme aims to encourage and nurture the technological strengths of adolescent girls who already show a propensity to the field.

‘Guyanese Girl Code’ is a free 12-week pilot project that will teach a beginners Coding/Programming to girls between the ages of 11 to 15 years.  The only requirement is that applicants be proficient computer users, familiar with the basic software and programmes.

Coders/Programmers are the innovators in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry, the technicians who create new software, applications, websites and more.

“Their work parameters are limitless.  Communication technologies are employed in every industry on this planet, from fashion to heart surgeries, agriculture and Oceanology,” Collison said.

The successful applicants are expected to complete the entire 12-week programme with full attendance.

 

By: Stacy Carmichael