Camara Archives - Camara Education

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders:

July 12, 2024

by johnfisher Camara Computer maintenance ICT Kenya Sustainability Tanzania Youth skills

Celebrating World Youth Skills Day with Camara Education

World Youth Skills Day was founded to celebrate the importance of providing young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship. At Camara, we believe that equipping youth with digital skills and knowledge is central to unlocking their full potential and driving positive change in their communities. It is at the heart of everything we do, but exemplified in particular by two programmes: our internships in Kenya, and our Youth Digital Skills course in Tanzania.

Internships in Kenya

Camara Kenya’s Internship programme is a 3-month course designed to equip participants with hands-on ICT skills in a real- world work environment. The initiative attracts students in various IT disciplines from universities and colleges across the country. The participants are based in our Mombasa Hub for day-to-day training and also undertake fieldwork activities in our local schools. The programme has supported almost 600 students to date, 40 of them in 2023.

By the end of the course, students have mastered vital skills including network setup and configuration, software installation & administration, and PC/laptop troubleshooting and repair. They are also taught soft skills such as marketing and how to conduct themselves in the workplace. These in-demand techniques place them ahead of the competition in the job market and help them explore opportunities for self-employment.

Tanzania – YDS

Camara Tanzania recently completed a successful pilot of its Youth Digital Skills As a result, 12 youths have been equipped with the essential digital skills needed in today’s workplace. The programme offered new opportunities for individuals in Dar es Salaam who had previously faced challenges in accessing education or employment.

Among the participants, six have already secured direct employment opportunities with national companies, while others have embraced freelancing as a livelihood. We are thrilled with the outcome of this pilot project and hope to roll out an even better version in the future, based on what we have learnt.

Graduate Testimonies

21-year-old Janeth George successfully completed the YDS course in Tanzania, and it has literally changed her life:

“Thanks to the Youth Digital Skills Program, I am now employed by Dospects Studio. My family believed in marriage, and I struggled to break free from that expectation due to financial dependence on them. But now, after completing the programme, I have gained employable skills and managed to get work. Many thanks to Camara Education, Tanzania.”

Everlyne Mkabili is currently interning with Camara Kenya:

“I am a student from Kenya Coast National Polytechnic pursuing a Diploma in Information Communication Technology. I am currently enrolled as an intern at Camara Education Kenya, a charity that provides computers, teacher training, and innovative learning programs to schools across Africa.

I came to know Camara through a teacher at Ribe Girl’s High School – I received three offers of attachments but the teacher advised me to select Camara since it was the best.

From the very start of the attachment, the learning environment has been friendly and understanding and the skills I have learned so far are top-notch. Among other things, I have learned how to dismantle and assemble all the external and internal parts of a PC; how to install various operating systems to different PCs; how to troubleshoot by running diagnostics; and how to make storage devices bootable.

With these few but important skills, I have been able to help a computer teacher at Ribe Girls’ High School solve a problem with one of his computers that had stopped working (the computer was not powering on, and if it was powering on, there was no display). I gave a solution to this scenario by asking him to remove the PC RAM sticks and clean them, as well as the RAM slots. I also asked him to check the power cable supplying power to the motherboard. After a few minutes, I received feedback from the same teacher, who happily explained to me that the directives I gave him worked successfully.

As we continue with this program, my hope is to gain more skills so that I can use them to build my future career as an IT Support Specialist.”

Irene Gabriel is a Graphic Design graduate of the YDS Program in Tanzania. She said:

“Before starting the training, I aspired to be a soldier, but that path wasn’t accessible. This program became a way for me to acquire additional skills. Now, my ambition is to excel as a graphics designer, leveraging the skills I’ve obtained.”

Kelvin Kirimi Mutuma, a former student at the Star Institute of Professionals, completed Camara Kenya’s internship programme in 2022 and is currently working at Erido Computer Solutions in Mombasa. He said:

“I was born and raised in the outskirts of Mombasa, in a place called Meru, 27 years ago. Growing up in a humble background, my parents did just enough to provide shelter and basic education. It never crossed my mind that one day I would be among the best technicians in the city.

My journey as a technician started in 2022 after completing my Diploma in ICT and CISCO Networking course at Star Institute of Professionals. At the end of my course, I heard about Internship programs at Camara Education Kenya and decided to join. Looking back, I am glad I made the decision – this is where I expanded my knowledge base and garnered experience, which has proved to be invaluable. The team of experts at Camara Kenya is more than willing to help young men and women cross the gap between school graduation and the job market.

Camara Education Kenya equips interns with skills to navigate the job market. While interning at Camara, I had the opportunity to put into practice what I had learned in school. I did all this without the fear of making mistakes since the experts at Camara encouraged us not to fear mistakes but instead to embrace and learn from them. The trainers at Camara allowed us to tag along for field work. The number of trips I made to schools within Mombasa County for computer maintenance and networking is countless. This exposure has jumpstarted my career as a networking and computer technician at Erido Computer Solutions.

At Erido, I have undertaken different roles including computer repair, CCTV installation and maintenance, as well as being a sales agent. All this is a result of the interpersonal skills I gained from Camara Education Kenya, which have enabled me to navigate the job market efficiently.

Today, I pride myself on being among the best computer and networking technicians, courtesy of Camara Education Kenya. Thank you, Camara, for the opportunity to train with you and help kickstart my career.”

Transforming student lives with donated computers

June 17, 2024

by John Fisher Camara

Camara Education Kenya believes passionately in the power of technology to unlock opportunities and empower students to reach their full potential. They’re thrilled to share two inspiring success stories of students whose journeys with donated computers have transformed their educational experience and future prospects.

Jovial Nyosimi

Jovial Nyosimi Momanyi, a high school student at Nkoroi Mixed Secondary in Kajiado County, struggled academically due to limited access to technology and lack of computer literacy skills. He had little exposure to computers and relied solely on traditional textbooks and handwritten assignments. His academic performance suffered as a result, and he often felt left behind compared to his peers who had access to technology-rich learning environments.

Receiving donated computers opened up a world of opportunities for Jovial Nyosimi. With access to computers at school, he was able to:

Enhance Learning: Jovial Nyosimi used the computers to complete assignments, research topics, and collaborate with classmates on projects. The ability to access resources and educational software significantly enriched his learning experience and academic performance.
Develop Skills: With regular access to computers, Jovial Nyosimi honed essential digital literacy skills such as typing, internet browsing and software proficiency. He became more confident in using technology for various tasks, from using apps to conducting research.
Explore Interests: The donated computers also allowed Jovial Nyosimi to explore his interests outside of the classroom.

Jovial Nyosimi’s dedication and perseverance with the donated computers paid off in remarkable ways:

He achieved significant academic improvement, earning top grades and recognition for his outstanding performance in class.
He gained confidence and self-esteem, knowing that he had the tools and resources to succeed academically and pursue his goals.

Today, Jovial Nyosimi is thriving academically and has ambitious plans for the future. He aspires to pursue a career in Information Technology, leveraging his passion for technology and his acquired skills to make a positive impact in the world. His success story is a testament to the transformative impact of donated computers on students’ lives. By providing access to technology, we’re not just giving students a tool; we’re opening doors to endless possibilities and empowering them to dream big and achieve their goals.

Peter Masogore

Maroa Peter Masogore, a high school student at Kongowea Secondary School in Mombasa, has a passion for learning but faced challenges in traditional classroom settings. Peter struggled with staying organized, managing assignments and grasping complex concepts. However, everything changed when he gained access to computers.

How Computers Made a Difference:

Personalized Learning: With the help of computers, Peter could tailor his learning experience to suit his individual needs and preferences. He explored online tutorials, educational websites and digital textbooks, allowing him to learn at his own pace and delve deeper into subjects that interested him.
Research and Information Access: Peter opened up a vast world of knowledge at his fingertips. He utilized search engines and academic journals to conduct research for his assignments, projects and personal interests. Access to diverse and reliable sources improved the quality of his work and expanded his understanding of various topics.
Collaboration: Collaboration is a crucial aspect of modern education. Peter collaborated with classmates on group projects, shared documents for peer review, and participated in discussions and school forums. Through collaboration tools and platforms, he honed his communication skills, learned from his peers, and contributed meaningfully to team projects.
Creativity and Expression: Peter discovered his creative potential through software applications. He used Microsoft tools, software and presentation programs to express his ideas, showcase his learning, and present his projects in engaging and innovative ways.

Academic Achievement:

Improved Grades: With the support of computers, Peter’s academic performance improved significantly. He achieved his grades in classes, received positive feedback from teachers, and gained confidence in his abilities as a student.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Engaging with technology encouraged Peter to think critically, analyse information, and solve problems creatively. He developed a growth mindset and embraced challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.
Preparation for the Future: Peter’s experience with computers prepared him for success beyond high school. He developed essential digital literacy skills, adaptability to new technologies, and a passion for lifelong learning that will serve him well in college or university and his future career as he aspires to be an Accountant.

Peter’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of computers in education. By providing access to technology, students like Peter can overcome barriers, unlock their potential, and achieve academic success. With the right tools and support, every student can thrive in the digital age and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.

Thank you to all our donors and partners for your generosity and support in making success stories like these possible. Together, we’re changing lives and shaping futures through the gift of technology in education.

Tech Skills Training in Zambia

June 13, 2024

by John Fisher Camara ICT Partnerships Zambia

Kabwe School for Continuing Education aims to offer technical skills to students aged 15-30 who have dropped out of mainstream education. It is located in Kabwe, a historic mining and agricultural town about 140km north of Lusaka, in central Zambia. Camara Zambia installed a Digital Learning Centre in the school, with funding through our partnership with Lenovo, including 25 computers and a server packed with educational content. We also trained the school’s teachers so that they could pass on their knowledge to the students and ensure maximum benefit from the Centre. This is what three of the young people who have used the Centre had to say:

“My name is Longwani Luckson, I live in Central Province in Kabwe town and I’m studying Computer Studies.

My whole course so far has been a great journey for me. I have learnt a lot about computers such as how to use applications like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Publisher. Before I knew about these techniques it was quite difficult for me to work with Office applications, but now I can say I’m an expert in all of them.

Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, I remained steadfast in my dedication to mastering the intricacies of computer science. I spent countless hours immersed in coding, networking and troubleshooting, fuelled by my ambition to make a difference in my community through technology.

I use computers for communication, to gain knowledge and to keep in touch, and I have been developing educational software for local schools and creating e-commerce platforms for small businesses, each endeavour fuelling my desire to make a positive impact through technology.

Through hard work, perseverance and unwavering determination, I have overcome obstacles and emerged as a promising young technologist in Kabwe. My journey is just beginning, but I am ready to embrace the challenges ahead, armed with my passion for computers and a relentless drive to succeed.”

“My name Is Chongo Makamba, and I study Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Kabwe School for Continuing Education.

Starting with almost no experience, I have learned that a computer is an electronic device or machine which retrieves, stores, processes and manipulates data. When I first started my course, I used to face many challenges on how to operate a computer, including typing. I used to be slow and even finding a letter on the keyboard could be a challenge. But over time I have improved, so now I can type faster and make different types of documents on a computer such us birthday cards, brochures, menu cards, calendars, etc.

Furthermore, the computers have proved helpful in numerous ways – for research, writing of assignments, creation of different types of documents and so on. I have improved my digital skills and feel prepared for the future.”

“My name is Goodson Chipapala, hailing from Kabwe district. I am currently doing a certificate in Computer Studies. I found my passion ignited by the endless possibilities that technology offers; computers have become more than just gadgets to me; they are portals to a universe waiting to be explored.

In my early days, my interactions with computers were limited to gaming and basic tasks. However, as I delved deeper into the digital realm, I discovered a newfound fascination for research. With each click of the mouse and every stroke of the keyboard, I embarked on a journey of knowledge acquisition and personal growth.

My interests led me to explore diverse subjects, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. With each topic I delved into, I honed my research skills, learning to discern credible sources from mere conjecture. Through perseverance and determination, I gradually became adept at synthesizing information, analysing data, and presenting my findings coherently.

My time at Kabwe Skills Institute became a pivotal chapter in my story. Here, I not only expanded my technical proficiency but also cultivated a deeper understanding of how technology can be harnessed for research and innovation. Courses in Computer Science and Information Technology equipped me with the tools to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and precision.

Today, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of technology. From a curious enthusiast to a skilled researcher, my journey has been one of continuous growth and discovery. As I look to the future, I am filled with excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead, knowing that with each keystroke, I am one step closer to unlocking new horizons.”

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

May 17, 2024

by John Fisher Camara Computer maintenance ICT Sustainability

This year, World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is highlighting the importance of advancing communication technologies for sustainable development. Digital innovation can help connect the world and unlock sustainable prosperity for all. According to the UN, digital technologies can help achieve 70% of the targets of their Sustainable Development Goals. Now more than ever, building a sustainable future demands innovative thinking and action in the digital world.

With 2.6 billion people still unconnected, glaring digital gaps hinder innovation across much of the world. Many countries are struggling to keep up in today’s fast-changing digital landscape.

Camara Education aims to be part of the solution. We are dedicated to empowering communities through technology-enabled learning. In a world where access to information and communication technology is vital, we are at the forefront of leveraging technology to revolutionise education and drive sustainable progress.

Digital innovation empowering education:

Camara Education recognises that access to quality education is a fundamental right and a catalyst for sustainable development. However, millions of children worldwide still lack adequate educational resources, hindering their opportunities for growth and progress. Camara works in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia to establish digital learning centres in schools. We repurpose and refurbish IT equipment donated by businesses around the world, adding educational software and appropriate training to transform used hardware into powerful learning tools.

Empowering educators for impactful teaching:

Camara Education understands that technology alone is not enough; educators need support and training to effectively integrate it into their teaching practices. Thus, Camara Education provides comprehensive teacher training programmes, ensuring educators are equipped with the skills and resources needed to leverage technology for enhanced learning experiences. By empowering educators and school leaders, Camara Education amplifies the impact of digital innovation in classrooms, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Customised solutions for local communities:

One size does not fit all in education, especially in diverse global contexts. Recognising this, Camara Education’s local teams work with local authorities, schools and other stakeholder to customise digital solutions that align with each region’s educational needs and challenges. Whether it’s curating digital content tailored to local curricula or providing technical support, Camara Education ensures that its interventions are contextually relevant and sustainable, maximising their impact on student learning outcomes.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability:

In addition to driving educational impact, Camara Education is committed to promoting environmental sustainability. By refurbishing, repurposing or sustainably recycling used equipment, Camara Education not only extends the lifespan of electronic devices but also reduces electronic waste, contributing to a more sustainable future and promoting the circular economy. Our work not only conserves precious natural resources but also reduces the energy and carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new electronics. Additionally, by diverting e-waste from landfills, we prevent harmful pollutants from contaminating the environment.

Get involved:

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day serves as a reminder of the immense potential of digital innovation to drive sustainable development. Camara Education’s work exemplifies this potential, showcasing how technology can be harnessed to transform education and empower individuals and communities. To find out how you can get involved, request a call back.

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Refresher Training for Teachers

May 15, 2024

by johnfisher Camara Kenya Partnerships

Camara Education’s team in Kenya recently completed Refresher Training sessions for teachers in five counties — Mombasa, Kilifi, Makueni, Kajiado and Uasin Gishu.

This training was part of the STEM STEPS Project, with support from Dell Technologies, and serves a number of important purposes:

Updating Skills and Knowledge: Technology evolves rapidly, and refresher training helps teachers stay up to date with the latest ICT tools, software applications and teaching methodologies. It ensures that teachers have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices.
Enhancing Teaching Practices: The Refresher Training equips teachers with innovative instructional strategies and techniques for integrating technology into lesson planning, content delivery and student engagement. It helps them leverage ICT tools to create interactive learning experiences, promote critical thinking and facilitate personalized learning.
Improving Digital Literacy: Not all teachers may be proficient in using ICT tools and digital resources. Refresher training provides opportunities for teachers to improve their digital literacy skills, including computer proficiency, internet research, multimedia creation and online collaboration.
Promoting Student-Centred Learning: The Refresher Training empowers teachers to adopt student-centred approaches that prioritize active learning, collaboration and inquiry-based instruction. By mastering ICT tools and resources, teachers can facilitate student-led projects, problem-solving activities and assessments that promote deeper understanding and engagement.
Addressing Classroom Challenges: Teachers may encounter various challenges when integrating technology into their classrooms, such as technical issues, digital distractions and accessibility concerns. Refresher training provides strategies and best practices for overcoming these challenges and maximizing the benefits of ICT in education.
Supporting Differentiated Instruction: The Refresher Training helps teachers differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of their students. Teachers learn how to use technology to provide personalized learning experiences, accommodate individual learning preferences and support students with special needs.
Fostering Professional Growth: Continuous professional development is essential for teachers’ growth and effectiveness. The Refresher Training offers opportunities for collaborative learning, peer sharing and reflective practice, enabling teachers to continuously improve their teaching skills and adapt to changing educational contexts.
Preparing for the Future: In today’s digital age, ICT skills are essential for students’ future success in higher education and the workforce. The Refresher Training equips teachers with the tools and strategies to prepare students for the demands of a technology-driven society, fostering digital citizenship, critical thinking and lifelong learning skills.

Overall, Refresher Training plays a crucial role in empowering teachers to harness the power of technology to enhance teaching and learning outcomes, promote student engagement and achievement and prepare students for success in the digital age.

Happy Birthday Camara!

November 1, 2023

by johnfisher Camara

On Camara’s eighteenth birthday – the organisation was founded in Dublin back in 2005 – we’re reflecting on our journey to adulthood, and the changes we’ve undergone along the way. We talked to John Brown, a long-standing trustee of Camara, about our impact, how the organisation has changed over the years and the highlights of his trips to our schools. You can watch that interview here:

In the past eighteen years, over 140,000 computers have been installed in schools and some four-and-a-half million children impacted. While at the outset we simply supplied computers to schools, our focus has evolved over the years so that we now offer a range of integrated products and services that support schools in multiple ways. This includes the provision of high-quality computer equipment, educational resources tailored to the local curriculum and training for teachers, as well as technical and e-waste support. All of these changes come from our experience in the real world and determination to maximise the effective usage of the eLearning centres we install.

Our work has expanded in other ways too, for example in seeking to assist young adults into employment through internships and digital skills courses that give hands-on experience in the world of work.

Nor is our impact confined to the students and teachers we’re working with – by reusing IT equipment we’re helping the environment by reducing carbon emissions and keeping material out of landfill.

We’d like to extend huge birthday thanks to all the partners, sponsors and donors who have helped us along the way.