TechKobwa Closing Ceremony

After a long week of training, it's always important to recognize the efforts and learning of our student and adult participants. To accommodate long travel and important guests, we hosted this year's Closing Ceremony on Thursday afternoon (with a celebratory dance in the evening!).

The goal of the Closing Ceremony is not only to celebrate everyone's achievement with awarding of certificates but also to highlight the camps' accomplishments for our partners and sponsors. In attendance at this year's Ceremony were:

• Patrick Rwamabidadi, Special Technologist Ministry of Youth & ICT (representing the Honorable Minister of Youth & ICT Jean P.... NSENGIMANA who was unable to attend)
• Jen Hedrick, Country Director of Peace Corps Rwanda
• Antoine MUTSINZI, Director of TD.... Rwanda Education Board
• Frederic MUTANGANA, Principal IPRC West
• As well as our main organizers: Louise Hemond-Wilson (IBM), Laura Dillon (MSU), and Michelle Slattery (Peak Research)

The Ceremony included speeches by student UMUHOZA Yvette and Teacher XXXX xxxx, who both highlighted their appreciation of the program and shared examples of how TechKobwa will help them in their future studies and career.   Students also demonstrated their understanding of electrical circuitry using our Elenco kits and one student research group did an oral presentation to share their project aimed at using technology to create and market an innovative anti-malarial body soap.

IPRC West Principal MUTANGANA Frederic gave an encouraging speech about the benefits of ICT in Rwanda and how vocational schools, like IPRC West, can provide opportunities for further study and job connections. He ended his speech by stating his complete support of TechKobwa and commitment to host the program in future years, and even to be available as guest expert!

Our distinguished guest, Patrick RWm... closed the program with an inspiring speech on behalf of the Honorable Minister, saying......

Finally, certificates were awarded and many, many photos taken!