Future Tech Leaders Emerge: JamCoders Summer Camp Graduates 46 Bright Minds
16 Aug 2024
Kingston, Jamaica – August 16, 2024: Forty-six brilliant young minds celebrated their graduation recently from the JamCoders Summer Camp at the University of the West Indies, marking a significant step in their education in coding and algorithms.
Over the past two years, N.C.B. Foundation has invested a total of J$1.25M in the JamCoders programme. In 2023, JamCoders trained 48 students, and this year, 46 tech-savvy high school students from the 3rd, 4th, and 5th forms graduated. For four weeks in July, these students engaged in rigorous learning, interactive activities, and collaborative problem-solving.
The JamCoders Summer Camp is dedicated to unlocking the potential of these bright minds, aligning with N.C.B. Foundation's focus to build Jamaica’s pool of digital producers. By equipping these young Jamaicans with foundational coding and algorithms skills, the camp empowers them to become leaders and innovators with the potential to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.
"The achievements of these young coders are inspiring," said Thalia Lynn, Chair of N.C.B. Foundation. “N.C.B. Foundation believes in nurturing the talents of our youth, providing them with the skills and opportunities to excel in this digital age. These graduates embody the future of Jamaica, and we were immensely proud to support their journey through this partnership with JamCoders."
Dr Daniel Fokum, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Computing at the University of the West Indies, praised the initiative: "The JamCoders Summer Camp showcases the incredible potential of our young minds. By immersing these students in the world of programming, we not only fostered technical skills but also encouraged critical thinking and innovation. I am confident that these graduates will go on to make significant contributions to the tech industry and beyond."
Tianna Harriott, a graduate from this year’s cohort, reflected on the experience, saying, "Participating in the JamCoders Summer Camp was an amazing experience. I learned so much about algorithms, coding and problem-solving, and I feel more confident in my abilities. I can't wait to apply these skills in my future studies and career. Thank you, NCB, and the JamCoders for this amazing experience."
Empress Golding, N.C.B. Foundation Director, encouraged the graduates to dream big, aim high, and never doubt the remarkable potential within them as they embark on this new chapter. She emphasised that the skills and knowledge they have gained will serve as a strong foundation for their future endeavours. Highlighting their importance to the nation's future, she expressed confidence that they will achieve great things.
About N.C.B. Foundation
Formalised in 2003, N.C.B. Foundation has since invested over J$2 billion in various programmes and strategic initiatives geared at education and community development across Jamaica, Haiti, St. Vincent and Barbados. N.C.B. Foundation pursues its mandate of expanding Jamaica’s pool of digital producers, through the development and cultivation of future-fit digital talent and skills. While it supports numerous projects and initiatives throughout the year, its annual Grant a Wish and Scholarship and Grants programmes are highly anticipated and celebrated for their positive impact on the individuals, institutions and communities involved.
For further information, visit www.myncb.com/Corporate-Social-Responsibility
