Skill Up: Digital Education for Cameroon's Youth

A New Session Begins

This October, the Thrive Center in Douala, Cameroon launched its new youth empowerment and digital skills session, welcoming more than 120 students into free technology and leadership programs. Learners are now participating in Girls in Tech, AI with Python, Data Analysis, Microsoft Office, Web Development, Career Launch, and Green Warriors, our environmental leadership course. Since its opening, the Thrive Center has trained more than 500 young people, helping them build skills that open doors to future academic and career opportunities.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tech Girls

One of the highlights of the school year took place at Lycée Joss, one of our partnering and highly reputable public high schools in Douala. During the school’s opening assembly, a student who reached the global semi-finals of the Technovation Challenge proudly presented her certificate to her peers. Standing before her teachers and classmates, she shared how the program helped her gain confidence, improve her communication skills, and discover her passion for technology.

Her impact did not end there. Motivated by her experience, she created her own “tech girls” team at her school. She now meets with younger girls each week to help them explore coding, digital tools, and problem-solving skills. Her leadership is inspiring more students to participate in Girls in Tech this year, showing the powerful ripple effect created when even one girl is empowered.

Expanding Our School Partnership

Our long-term collaboration with Lycée Joss continues to grow. During our October 20 school visit, students engaged deeply with our team, and more than 70 registered for Thrive Center programs within two days. To support their learning, the school has requested co-branded student badges that allow these learners to access the school’s multimedia center for extra practice. Since 2024, more than 250 students from this school have benefited from Thrive Center training.

Introducing Internship Pathways

This year also marked the launch of our first internship program. Five top-performing students from the previous session were selected after completing interviews, giving them hands-on experience in digital literacy initiatives, workshop support, and community engagement. The next cohort of eligible interns will be chosen from the strongest performers in the current session. These opportunities help students apply classroom learning to real-life situations and build confidence in their professional abilities.

Gratitude to Our Supporters

None of these milestones would be possible without your generosity. Thank you for supporting our work, believing in the potential of young people in Cameroon, and helping us expand access to digital skills, empowerment, and opportunity. Your commitment continues to transform lives.