
The Code-4-Impact Programme embodies the fusion of education and information technology, driven by a commitment to uplift vulnerable populations, with a special focus on youth and females. This innovative initiative is designed to empower each cohort of youth entrepreneurs by equipping them with in-demand tech skills in a condensed timeframe, where theoretical knowledge is seamlessly translated into practical application, all while providing paid opportunities. At its core, the Code for Impact Programme addresses three pivotal areas:
- Stage 1. Upskilling Youth Entrepreneurs for the Skills of the Future:
The heart of the Code-4-Impact Programme lies in the upskilling of youth entrepreneurs. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the programme equips participants with knowledge and access to cutting-edge tech skills such as coding, cybersecurity, and software development. This educational foundation is designed to prepare them for the jobs of the future, ensuring they are competitive and adept in the ever-changing IT landscape. This takes please for 1 day every week for 16 weeks.
- Stage 2. Fostering Community Engagement and Upliftment:
The programme goes beyond theoretical learning by providing a dynamic platform for the practical application of acquired skills. Participants are placed within community-based organizations, primarily NPOs/CBOs, where they engage in meaningful work. For two days every week, over a period of 16 weeks, participants are engaged in paid work within these NPOs/CBOs which will be host organizations. This approach yields a two-fold benefit: participants gain invaluable hands-on experience, and the host organizations receive much-needed IT support services. It's a symbiotic relationship where knowledge meets action, fostering community engagement and upliftment.
- Stage 3. Post-Placement Incubation and Freelance Opportunities:
Following the four-month placement within host organizations, the journey continues through the Code-4- Impact Programme. Participants are further incubated to leverage their newfound experience in the IT sector. This incubation phase spans an additional two months and aims to empower participants to generate income as freelancers/entrepreneurs. The experience gained during the placement period becomes a powerful asset as participants embark on their career journeys. During this phase, Code-4- Impact actively seek work opportunities for the participants in various IT domains, such as online support, user testing for online products and services, piloting online programs, creative media creation for agencies and contributing to innovation in the humanitarian/development sectors.
Crucially, this phase transitions away from the standard stipend, encouraging participants to independently manage their workflow, clients, finances, and marketing efforts. It's a pivotal stage where participants have the autonomy to explore a diverse array of IT jobs, further honing their skills while delving into the intricacies of entrepreneurship.
In essence, the Code-4-Impact Programme is a holistic and dynamic approach to IT skills development and empowerment. It not only equips youth entrepreneurs with the skills needed to excel in the technology-driven 21st century but also provides them with real-world experience and opportunities for financial independence. By bridging the gap between education and practical application, the programme empowers participants to be not just job seekers but job creators, contributing to their own growth, their communities, and the ever-evolving IT landscape.