Nassau, Bahamas – Coding Bahamas Future (CBF), a Bahamian non-profit organization dedicated to promoting computer science education in public schools, has distributed robotics kits to several school coding clubs in Nassau over the past 2 weeks.
The schools included in the distribution are Gerald Cash Primary, Palmdale Primary, Sadie Curtis Primary, Albury Sayle Primary, Garvin Tynes Primary, Yellow Elder Primary, Claridge Primary, Sybil Strachan Primary, and Carmichael Primary.
The robotics kits, according to CBF Co-Founder and President Catherine LaJeunesse, are invaluable tools for teaching coding and serve as the modern-day equivalent of traditional workbooks.
“Creating the code for a robot is an engaging and creative way for students to see their code come to life,” said LaJeunesse. “We believe all students should have access to these tools to help them become creators who can harness the power of technology.”
Ministry of Education Officer Ms. Bernadette Murray is “thrilled that our students have received the generous donation of robotics kits from CBF. These hands-on learning tools will ensure that every child has the opportunity to create, build, and use their imagination skills. By engaging in the process of constructing and programming the robots, even our slowest or most reluctant learners will have the chance to build self-confidence and curiosity. This tactile, exploratory approach to coding and engineering will motivate our non-readers to try harder and take pride in their abilities. We are deeply grateful for this investment in our students’ futures as the next generation of innovative problem-solvers.”
The program has also inspired local teachers. Over the past two summers, CBF Co-Founder and Executive Director Ryan Austin conducted workshops that equipped 120 teachers with coding skills. Participants received professional development certificates from the Ministry of Education. Teachers interested in further developing their coding skills have access to numerous free online resources, with LaJeunesse recommending Code.org, which offers specific courses tailored for educators.
CBF plans to continue its robotics kit distribution and will be expanding the program in the coming weeks.
“We welcome community partners to join us in this effort,” said LaJeunesse. “We currently have a matching grant from the Fantom Foundation, so all donations are matched dollar-for-dollar.”
Interested individuals and organizations can reach out by emailing catherine [at] codingbahamasfuture.org.
About Coding Bahamas Future (CBF):
Coding Bahamas Future is a Bahamian and U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to empowering teachers and students through computer science education. CBF is staffed entirely by volunteers, and its programs are funded through grants and donations from the community.
Currently, CBF has a matching grant from the Fantom Foundation, a blockchain platform.
The non-profit partners with the Ministry of Education and receives the support of Hon. Minister Glenys Hanna Martin, Minister of Education, Technical and Vocational Training of The Bahamas, to provide programs and resources that promote digital literacy in Bahamian schools.
For more information, please visit www.codingbahamasfuture.org or email info [at] codingbahamasfuture.org.
Albury Sayles Primary School
Principal: Naria Holbert
Grade 5 teacher: Tanisha Newbold,
with Mrs. Catherine LaJeunesse, Coding Bahamas Future
