Standard Bank Fuels STEAM Education with KwaZulu-Natal Hackathon
Standard Bank Group Technology, in collaboration with the Kuunda Disrupt Programme and Gordon Road Girls School, has launched a dynamic STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Coding challenge in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of tech innovators by providing hands-on experience and empowering learners from underserved communities. The hackathon is a significant step in bridging the digital divide and nurturing crucial skills within the African context.
Bridging the Digital Divide Through Coding
The STEAM Hackathon engages 126 learners across 21 primary schools, specifically targeting those in quintile levels 4 and 5. These schools often face resource constraints and limited access to technology education, including IT labs, coding programs, and robotics training. To address this, each participating school will be equipped with a Raspberry Pi and Microbit kit, providing essential tools for coding and creative problem-solving. Furthermore, the learners will receive guidance from dedicated technical mentors, fostering an environment of support and learning. This program follows a successful 2024 initiative where 18 schools in the region benefited, demonstrating the concrete impact of early technological exposure and innovation.
This STEAM Hackathon represents Standard Bank’s ongoing commitment to fostering digital literacy and preparing young South Africans for future opportunities. By investing in early STEAM education, Standard Bank is contributing to a more skilled and innovative workforce, ultimately driving economic growth in the KwaZulu-Natal region and beyond.
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