From learning how to code a Micro:bit to make a guitar, to programming mini Sphero robots into magic eight balls, Hudson Park Primary School was recently turned into a computer programming hub during their annual Africa Code Week sessions.
Teaching children from grades R to 7, Hudson computer teachers ran various workshops as well as coding classes at the school.
They also joined forces with digital learning outreach foundation, Fundanii, and visited Gcobani Senior Primary and Mkululeko Senior Primary, reaching more than 250 children in Mdantsane.
“More and more is being done by using technology and if we don’t move with the times then we’re going to be left behind. Coding is intimidating and people often get discouraged to try it when they are older, that’s why it’s so important for us to start now and do the more exciting and interactive activities with the students,” said Hudson Primary computer teacher, Megan Skelly.
Putting an emphasis on teaching girls how to code, the school also held two after-school coding workshops specifically for girls.
“The computer fields are largely male-dominated and there is a focus in education to increase the number of girls in the Stem (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields. The more diversity there is the easier it is to solve problems,” said Skelly.
Rebecca Goldblum, 11, an avid coder and computer whizz, said she really enjoyed these workshops.
“I want to be an animator one day which is sort of coding, but it involves art too. I like how the workshops helped to spread the word about coding because it’s so cool and I love it,” said the Grade 5 learner.
While the school has run Africa Code Week since 2016, it is their second time partnering with Fundanii for the event. The organisation aims to improve computer literacy skills of the youth in township schools.
“It’s really great to have people like Megan who share our goals and vision. Knowing how to use computers, the internet and how to code is extremely beneficial and even though we face many challenges, we strive to show the kids how to use the internet and their computer skills to find and further their careers,” said Fundanii co-founder, Sinovuyo Apleni.
Having recently launched their story animation website, Fundanii Stories, Fundanii hope to continue their work and this partnership in years to come.
“We have to be the example and show them that coding can open a lot of doors,” said co-founder, Luthando Gubevu...