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Codetrain Africa trainees tasked to solve global challenges
Musician, Kojo Cue, has advised young software developers to use their skills to solve problems in the creative industry and beyond.
He said knowledge and skills acquired in any field, including the tech industry, were “only valuable” when used to solve societal problems or make life easier for individuals and organisations.
He made the remarks while interacting with trainees of Codetrain Africa, a software engineering and design school based in Accra, at the institution’s “Demo Day” innovation challenge held on Saturday.
The “Demo Day” was an opportunity for trainees enrolled in the institute’s Software Engineering and User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design programmes, to showcase their technical abilities and creativity to a diverse audience, including potential employers and company representatives.
Some 14 trainees of Codetrain Africa teamed up to tackle problems presented by companies from various countries, including Germany, Ireland, Senegal, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Ghana.
They showcased mobile and web applications such a ‘Leave Management System’ for employers and employees, and the ‘Prescribe’ mobile application which allows people to book appointments with doctors.
Mr Richard Brandt, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Codetrain Africa, speaking at the event, said the institution was dedicated to equipping Africa’s youth with world-class skills in technology.
“Codetrain Africa takes committed tertiary graduates from any field of study and transforms them into sought-after innovators through its holistic education-to-employment programme.
“This comprehensive training prepares students to transition seamlessly into the tech industry, fostering a new generation of tech talent ready to thrive in the global market,” he said.
Mr Brandt added that Codetrain Africa strives to close the skills gap by offering students technical expertise as there were opportunities for remote jobs from international tech companies.
He said the institution has successfully trained over 700 individuals since its inception with over 89 per cent of students obtaining jobs within six to nine months after graduation.
“This success reflects Codetrain Africa’s ability to prepare its students for roles in top-tier firms both in Africa and abroad. We aim to create lasting change within our community and beyond, by providing access to quality education and contributing to economic growth,” he added.
The CEO noted that the institution remained committed to “creating lasting change both locally and globally,” and that graduates who have gone on to work with companies serve as “a testament to the school’s mission.”
Some trainees shared their experiences and encouraged young people to avail themselves of opportunities in the tech industry.
Ms. Grace Djobokou, a student, said girls could dominate in the technology industry; therefore, they should not shy away from participating in technology training programmes.
Also, Mr Benjamin Shadrach Tetteh, a developer who worked on the ‘Prescribe’ mobile application for a company in Berlin, Germany, acknowledged the challenges in coming up with his project but expressed satisfaction with the final output.
Muslims across the country celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-Adha in a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere under the theme, “A Season of Sacrifice, Solidarity and Spiritual Renewal.”
The celebration brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of faith, unity and cultural heritage.
The occasion was marked by special Eid prayers at various designated grounds, the slaughtering of rams in homes for sharing among family members, friends and the less privileged, as well as musical concerts and recreational activities including horse riding.
Leading the celebration was the Chief Imam, Dr Sheikh Osman Sharubutu.
While the national celebration was held at the Black Star Square where President John Dramani Mahama was the Special Guest of Honour, similar gatherings took place at different centres across the capital and other regions of the country.
A visit by The Spectator to some celebration grounds revealed Muslims, both young and old, elegantly dressed in colourful jalabiya and other Islamic attire, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the Muslim community.
The celebration also portrayed the spirit of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country, as a number of Christians joined their Muslim counterparts to mark the occasion.
Muslim leaders and government officials used the opportunity to call on the faithful to uphold the teachings of the Holy Quran, renew their spiritual commitment and refrain from acts capable of undermining the peace, unity and security of the nation.
They further urged Ghanaians to continue to live in harmony and support one another for national development.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Dear Obaa Yaa,
During Eid-ul- Adha celebration, I decided to spend the weekend at my boyfriend’s place since we were planning towards our marriage.
To my surprise, what keeps me wide awake, restless and frustrated every single time is that he snores loudly like a generator running on full power, and I genuinely cannot get any rest
At a point, I thought it was just a normal thing, but I have realised it is something he does with ease and doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
When he steps out in the morning, I try to get enough sleep because I may not sleep in the evening.
The most annoying thing is that, he always wants to cuddle me. These two things are a no for me and a red flag.
We are about to get married, what should I do?
Enam, Keta.
Dear Enam,
The snoring and constant cuddling are frustrating, but you don’t have to choose between sleep and closeness.
Start with the snoring: check if it’s worse when he sleeps on his back, cut out alcohol before bed, try nasal strips or a humidifier, and see a doctor if he pauses while breathing.
For quick relief, foam earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones help a lot.
Separate blankets, a bigger bed, or sleeping apart on some nights often makes couples rest well and feel closer overall.
Bring this up before the wedding .Tell him you want to wake up next to him for years to come, but sleep deprivation makes you both miserable.
Test earplugs and side-sleeping this weekend, and if it’s still unbearable, bring in a doctor. Good sleep matters more for your marriage than staying glued together all night.
