As I write this the Kenya Red Cross is organizing the tech event dubbed Random Hacks of Kindness. Developers from all over Kenya are presenting ideas on using technology in humanitarian situations. Taking place at Keny Red Cross offices.
Dr Ndemo opening the judging session emphasized the need for developers to think commercially in order for them to have the incentive to stay the course. Most applications are very socially oriented, perhaps representing our social reality.
What's amazing is the fact that these hackathons and developer forums are becoming an increasing aspect of youth culture in universities and colleges. Remember most developers ago are say 19 years old now were 14 years old when the undersea cable discussions started. What is evident is that these developers need a lot of mentoring and this where we can all come in. The issue of mentoring needs a broad discussion.
It was fresh to see a whole new bunch of techies with a different perspective. At this stage the developer community is doing what it can. Many of them worked the weekend to prepare. Once this becomes part of the youth culture, even for a few, opportunity is created.
This is kind of techie week in Kenya with Nokia Summit last week, the 4c challenge meeting last Friday, the pivot east and the outsourcing summit this week starting tomorrow.
Although the judging is still under way, I must say a Sunday afternoon well spent.
Paul Kukubo
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Paul Kukubo
Chief Executive Officer, Kenya ICT Board
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