In 2020, an initiative was born with a noble purpose: to equip student developers in Buea with the practical skills needed to build web and mobile application development. This initiative, known as the End of Year Developers BootCamp, seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, providing invaluable hands-on experience to the participants to prepare them for the market.
The 3rd edition of the boot camp, held from December 14th to 16th, 2023, saw a total of 21 enthusiastic participants eager to delve into the world of technology. Over the course of three days, participants delved into various aspects of tech development. They learned JavaScript and how to build responsive and High-Performance Web Applications, and Android and IOS Application on the first day. This was followed by sessions on web and mobile app development using React and React Native in the subsequent days. This comprehensive curriculum provided a solid foundation for the budding developers to build upon. The bootcamp was facilitated by Eng Fongoh Tayong Martin, Managing Director of Tech Chantier, along with co-facilitators Fomasit Chijoh and Ndelegh Noella, who were trainees from the last boot camp. It was inspiring for the others, especially the ladies, to see their counterparts pass on the knowledge they have acquired over time from being part of the training and mentorship this bootcamp provides.
Phase 2 - 1 Month Mentorship and Coaching.
The boot camp doesn't end with the three-day intensive training. Phase 2 involves a one-month online follow-up and mentorship program, where participants will apply their newfound skills to develop projects. They will be mentored and coached by the likes of Eng. Daniel Carlson, Eng. Esembe Elvis, and Eng. Usmaila Abdul, who also happens to be a product of the 1st edition. At the end of this period, participants will present their work in the presence of industry experts, receiving valuable feedback and networking opportunities and why not job opportunities. One notable aspect of this year's boot camp was the increased participation of female attendees, with 11 girls joining the cohort as opposed to 5 girls in the 1st edition and 7 girls in the 2nd edition. This 57.14% surge in female involvement signals a positive trend of inclusivity and diversity in tech-related activities.
The Future Of The Bootcamp.
The success of the boot camp is not without its challenges. Limited resources and space restrict the program to only 21 participants, highlighting the need for more sponsorship and mentorship opportunities to accommodate a larger number of aspiring developers. The 3rd Tech Boot Camp in Buea stands as a testament to the commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech talent, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
