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.