#National News

Summa IT boot Camp graduates  first batch

Aug 29, 2023, 11:42 AM | Article By: Jankey Ceesay

Summer IT Boot Camp with Pa Modou Njie, a platform designed to boost the Information Technology (IT) skills of young people  recently certified its first batch of students at a ceremony held at National Youth Council, Westfield.

This initiative is meant to provide platforms for the youth to fit into the realms of digital transformation of the country. 

At the ceremony, Pa Modou Njie, founder of Summer Boot Camp, explained that the initiative seeks to create opportunity for youth to connect and network with prominent leaders in the tech ecosystem

"I can proudly say that this vision is realised beyond expectations,” he said.

He thus congratulated the new graduates and encouraged them to make a difference to be able to contribute to national development.

He equally called on the President to empower youth with the world of science and tech as it is the future.

Aji Fama Jobe, gender advocate for STEM, advised the new graduates to identify their ecosystem, pick one aspect of IT they are passionate about and make it their driving force. 

“As young people we should be able to identify what we are good at, look for guidance and mentors who can help us get to where we want. 

Also speaking, Saibo Camara, co founder FactCheck Center, dilated that in an era where information travels faster than ever before, the power of digital platforms to shape opinions and perceptions, cannot be underestimated. 

“While the internet and social media have undoubtedly brought about immense benefits, they have also introduced a new dimension of challenges, one of which is the rampant spread of fake news. Being cognisant of that, The Gambia is at a critical juncture of its transitions and democratisation process toward a more progressive nation and its ambitions to harness the potential of the youth, technological innovation and resources. There is an absolute need to pay attention to the unchecked proliferation of fake news that threatens to erode the very foundations of these efforts,” he added.

Mr Basiru Gaye, NYC and Youth Connekt Gambia Focal Point also encouraged young people to be innovative in the various dimensions to complement each other’s efforts and do away with copying each other.

Ali Ceesay, a graduate delivered the vote of thanks.