(Students Of AiPro College With DSTI Project Coordinator Bani Forster)
In an effort to prepare university students for the fast-paced transition into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), UNICEF Sierra Leone and the Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) have collaborated to organise a series of seminars aimed at unlocking the potential of Digital Public Goods (DPGs) for university students.
(Students From The STED Society Of Fourah Bay College At The DPG Seminar)
These seminars, scheduled to happen in six college campuses (Fourah Bay College, IPAM, AIPro in Freetown, EBK University in Makeni, Eastern Technical University in Kenema and Njala University in Bo) across Sierra Leone, are a testament to the power of partnership, paving the way for a brighter digital future in Sierra Leone.
(Students Inside The Digital Learning Hub)
Digital Public Goods are digital resources, tools, and applications that are open, accessible, and available for public use without restrictions. These encompass everything from open-source software to open data initiatives, fostering a collaborative digital ecosystem. The importance of DPGs lies in their ability to democratise technology, making it accessible to all, irrespective of economic or geographical constraints.
(Students From The STED Society Of Fourah Bay College At The DPG Seminar)
These seminars act as catalysts, empowering students with a deep understanding of DPGs and their transformative potential. By equipping the next generation of innovators with this knowledge, UNICEF Sierra Leone and DSTI are nurturing a cohort of tech leaders ready to tackle real-world challenges.
(Jasper Sembie, Chief Operating Officer at DSTI)
Jasper Sembie, Chief Operating Officer at DSTI emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “These seminars serve as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application. We aim to inspire students to harness the power of DPGs in their academic pursuits and future careers.”
(Student Beneficiary Making Brief Remarks)
One student beneficiary, Festus Kahunla shared their experience, stating, “These seminars have broadened my perspective. I now understand the impact of technology beyond conventional boundaries. DPGs have the potential to address societal issues, and I am excited to be part of this digital revolution.”
(Kahil Ali, Head of Project Design and Delivery at DSTI)
Kahil Ali, Head of Project Design and Delivery at DSTI, highlighted the nation’s achievement, stating, “Sierra Leone’s position as the first African country on the global DPG Alliance Board is a testament to our commitment to innovation. By educating our youth about DPGs, we nurture a culture of innovation that will propel Sierra Leone to new heights.”
(Students At The DPG Seminar)
As the seminars unfold, a sense of optimism permeates the air. Through this collaboration, UNICEF Sierra Leone and DSTI are sowing the seeds of progress. By investing in education and fostering a culture of innovation, Sierra Leone is not only embracing its position on the global DPG Alliance Board but also ensuring a future where technology serves as a beacon of hope and progress for all.
(Student Facilitator Speaking To Participants)
In partnership with UNICEF Sierra Leone, DSTI is lighting the path toward a digitally inclusive future, one seminar at a time.