This summer, 72 students from across the Caribbean were empowered to embrace technology as they participated in the fourth annual IGT Coding and Robotics Rock! Camp. Hosted virtually by International Game Technology (IGT) in partnership with the Mona Geoinformatics Institute (MGI) at the University of the West Indies, the camp provided young participants with a foundation in coding, robotics, and computer science.

The camp, an extension of IGT’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme, featured two levels. Level 1 introduced coding, website development, and the basics of robotics to new students. Level 2 offered more advanced students deeper insights into web development, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and a foray into Artificial Intelligence. The students also engaged in hands-on robotics projects, which gave them practical experience in problem-solving and innovation.

Participants hailed from five Caribbean countries: Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago. Notable institutions involved included the Maude Crosse Preparatory School in Nevis, The Learning Centre in Barbados, and The St Maarten Youth Council.

Under this year’s theme, “Climate Action: Think It! Code It! Solve It!”, students were encouraged to use their newfound skills to address global environmental challenges. At the camp’s closing ceremony, Nalini Ramsawak-Jodha, a lecturer at the University of the West Indies, urged participants to remain curious and to leverage technology to create solutions for climate change.

As they embark on a new school year, these young innovators are well-equipped with the skills and inspiration to continue exploring technology, furthering their journey to becoming tomorrow’s problem-solvers and innovators.