This year’s Hour of Code programme, jointly organised by Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives has ended with the participation of over 1000 students, covering 17 atolls of Maldives.
Hour of Code is an annual event held by Code.org to mark International Computer Science Week, celebrated worldwide every year in December. The sessions in Maldives were kicked off on 10th December with the main event on 24th December 2022.
The participants were grouped according to different age groups and mentors from Women in Tech Maldives, Dhiraagu and school teachers organised multiple activities to inspire participants on computer science and coding, bringing the spotlight on the importance of Computer Science education.
The Chief Guest of the opening ceremony was the Minister of Education, Dr. Aishath Ali. Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister noted that the skills gained in the field of computer science are not only vital for children’s future careers but also valuable in every aspect of life. She also noted that Hour of Code is a great opportunity to get to know the world of computer science and how it can benefit the participants.
Chief Technology and Information Officer at Dhiraagu, Mohamed Musad spoke on behalf of Dhiraagu at the opening ceremony. He reflected on the importance of computer science and coding knowledge in the currently evolving world and highlighted how coding teaches several useful skills such as teamwork, time management, project management and problem-solving, which would be beneficial for students in whichever career they chose.
Additionally, Vice President of Women in Tech Maldives Mariyam Shimanath also addressed the participants during the ceremony. She pointed out that Hour of Code is an opportunity for participants to try out coding and that it helps them get a variety of different skills which could be used to elevate every aspect of their lives.
This year’s programme was made even more special as both the Minister of Education, Dr. Aishath Ali and the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, Aminath Shauna also participated in the programme, completing the hour of code. They also pledged to work towards developing the sector with respect to coding, computer science and STEM.
‘Hour of Code’ is a great way to introduce students of all ages to coding and spark interest in computer science. Starting to learn computer science at an early age is the foundation for success in every field in the 21st century, which can also increase their creativity and problem-solving abilities and skills.
