Orange Foundation Sierra Leone has celebrated the successful completion of its Next Gen Summer Camp 2026, an initiative designed to equip children with practical skills in coding, web development, 3D modelling and printing.

The certification ceremony, held at the Orange Digital Centre on Friday, August 28, 2026, brought together participants aged seven to 15, parents, trainers and invited guests. The occasion celebrated the achievements of dozens of young Sierra Leoneans who spent several weeks exploring technology, developing their creativity and transforming ideas into practical projects.

The programme commenced on August 4, 2026, as a summer learning initiative but quickly developed into an inspiring experience that transformed curious children into confident young innovators.

Beyond acquiring technical knowledge, participants were encouraged to think creatively, solve problems, work collaboratively and develop the confidence needed to present their ideas publicly.

One of the programme’s major components was the coding class, during which participants learned to use Scratch, a programming language developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Working in teams, the children created interactive stories, animations and games that demonstrated their understanding of basic programming concepts. Among the projects presented was “Flying Carrots,” an interactive game that highlighted the participants’ creativity, teamwork and growing problem-solving abilities.

Participants in the web development class also impressed attendees with websites inspired by their individual interests and ambitions.

Their projects included a platform promoting Sierra Leonean fashion and culture, an e-commerce website, a football information portal, an educational flashcard platform and a website designed to help beginners learn coding.

Each project reflected the children’s interests and demonstrated how technology could be used to educate, connect people, promote culture and create opportunities.

The 3D modelling and printing class produced some of the programme’s most innovative projects. Participants demonstrated how technology could be applied to address everyday challenges within their communities.

Their creations included a rainwater filtration system and a self-watering flower vase. The projects reflected practical thinking and showed the young innovators’ determination to use technology to develop solutions capable of improving people’s lives.

Parents watched with pride as the children confidently presented their work. For many families, seeing their children demonstrate skills acquired within only a few weeks was both emotional and inspiring.

The presentations showcased not only technical knowledge but also improvements in confidence, communication, teamwork and public speaking. Participants demonstrated the courage to explain their ideas and respond to questions from guests.

The ceremony also featured performances by some of the children, adding excitement and entertainment to the celebration. Laughter and applause filled the Orange Digital Centre as families, trainers and guests celebrated the achievements of the young participants.

The success of the programme reflects Orange Foundation Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to promoting digital inclusion, education and youth empowerment.

By providing children with access to technology and practical learning opportunities, the Foundation is helping to prepare young people for an increasingly digital world while nurturing a new generation of innovators, creators and problem-solvers.

For the participants, receiving certificates represented more than recognition of their commitment and hard work. It marked the beginning of a new journey filled with opportunities to learn, create and explore careers in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Many participants completed the programme with greater confidence, bigger dreams and a stronger interest in using technology to develop solutions for their communities.

Through initiatives such as the Next Gen Summer Camp, Orange Foundation Sierra Leone continues to invest in the potential of children and young people. The programme demonstrates that when children are given access to knowledge, technology and supportive learning environments, they can become architects of a brighter and more digitally empowered future for Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63945