In an unprecedented move, the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) partnered with Mzansi Web3, based in South Africa, to organize the institution’s inaugural hackathon. A total of 175 students from diverse faculties and various stages of their academic journeys registered to participate in the two-day hackathon held on December 8 and 9.
Taurayi Rupere, head of the university’s computer science department, expressed that the hackathon aimed to nurture developers with a penchant for innovative thinking. Initially targeting computer science students, the overwhelming enthusiasm led the department to extend invitations to students from other disciplines.
In discussions, Rupere highlighted measures that the university could adopt to educate both enrolled and non-enrolled individuals about blockchain technology. “We should introduce a course spanning two or three months to raise awareness within the market. Additionally, integrating blockchain topics into students’ research projects could be beneficial,” Rupere suggested.
The aspiration shared by both the UZ and its students is for the hackathon to serve as a precursor to a series of similar events in the future, rather than a one-time occurrence.
Fostering Understanding and Skills in the Younger Generation
Shaheer Karrim, the brain behind Mzansi Web3 Hub, expressed optimism about the educational endeavors his organization is pursuing in Southern Africa. He believes these initiatives will significantly augment the comprehension and proficiency of the younger generation in blockchain technology. Karrim anticipates that such efforts will contribute to Africa’s active involvement in the global digital transformation.
Karrim also highlighted the ongoing role of the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) in popularizing blockchain technology, not just in Southern Africa but across the continent. He remarked, “The surge in blockchain adoption by African governments and businesses signifies the recognition of its potential to revolutionize various sectors. The Internet Computer Protocol, renowned for its advanced technology stack, is gaining traction worldwide.”
Instilling Knowledge of Blockchain for Africa’s Future
According to Karrim, educating Africa’s upcoming generations about blockchain technologies will prepare the continent’s youth to leverage the forthcoming digital revolution. Confidence Nyirenda, the lead ambassador of Mzansi Web3 Hub in Zimbabwe, emphasized that the primary goal of this hackathon and those to come is to introduce the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) to students.