BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: Star Catch-Up Salone and DSTI Train Girls in ICT

Star Catch-Up Salone in collaboration with the Directorate of Science Technology and Innovation with support from UNICEF Sierra Leone hosted the Girls in ICT training program in Makeni, Kenema and Freetown. This program is designed to empower young girls aged 12-24 years from diverse backgrounds including underserved communities with hands-on training on the essential digital skills needed to thrive in today’s tech era and inspire them to pursue careers in technology, raise awareness about ICT career opportunities among girls and promote diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
The sessions were held in DSTI-managed Digital Learning Hubs across the country. 

Actively engaged participants

Star Catch-Up Salone is committed to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that young people and especially girls in Sierra Leone have the opportunity to explore, learn, innovate and grow in this 4th industrial revolution.
The Girls in ICT project builds on our previous commitments in digital education through our digital upskilling program by offering hands-on training to youths across Sierra Leone.

Girls in ICT offers hands-on training, including:

• Fundamentals of Computer Literacy – Understanding the basic components of a computer
• Introduction to Office packages – Training in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access 
• Introduction to coding – A Practical and interactive introduction to programming and logical thinking
• Google Workspace – A practical guide to explore Google Docs, Sheets and Slides for collaboration.

Patrick Samuels emphasizes Star Catch-Up Salone’s mission to bridge the digital divide

“Our mission is to uplift and educate the next generation. Partnering with DSTI for the ‘Girls in ICT’ program enables us to extend our impact, ensuring that young girls in Sierra Leone have the opportunities they deserve.” – Patrick Samuels founder Star Catch-Up Salone

Since 2021, Patrick has been at the forefront of Star Catch-Up Salone’s digital initiatives, leading both virtual and in-person digital upskilling trainings. Through these efforts, the organization has empowered countless young people by using digitalization as a bridge to future-proof transformation—leveraging technology and innovation to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Mamie Monjama Alpha (DSTI Data Analyst) – teaching young girls MS packages

For the fourth consecutive year, Mamie Monjama Alpha has spearheaded a project named; Careers in Tech, delivering engaging training and seminars in secondary schools that ignite a passion for STEM careers. Since 2022, Careers in Tech (CiT) initiative have reached over 3,400 students across 100 schools in just 24 months. It introduced learners to emerging fields like data science, AI, blockchain, drone technology, and robotics, equipping them with future-ready skills and inspiring interest in tech-driven careers. Its impact has shown the strong potential of Sierra Leonean students to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Building on this success, DSTI is now expanding the initiative with their counterpart Star Catch-Up Salone through the Girls in ICT training program.

Participants learning with attention to detail

Joshua Yarjah, teaching scratch programming

Joshua Yarjah is a facilitator for the Girls in ICT training program under Star Catch-Up Salone. He is an ICT professional with a strong background in backend development, data analysis, and digital capacity building. During the training, Joshua led sessions on computer programming and data tools using Scratch and Excel—essential platforms for developing the digital and analytical skills required in today’s digital era.

Beyond training, Joshua has contributed to the development of enterprise systems using technologies such as Django, Python, and WordPress. He blends technical expertise with a strong passion for leveraging data to identify trends, enhance systems, and support evidence-based decision-making.

Participant building her first game from scratch

Girls in ICT program will be expanded to more districts across Sierra Leone, making sure that no young girl is left behind in the digital revolution. With the generous support of UNICEF, we are grooming a new generation of problem-solvers, tech innovators and leaders who will help in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.

Mamie Monjama Alpha (DSTI Data Analyst) – facilitating a session

“Empowering young women with digital skills is not just about inclusion; it’s about innovation. At DSTI, we are committed to paving the way for a brighter technological future in Sierra Leone.” – Monjama Alpha, Data Analyst at DSTI

DSTI’s Technical Director issuing out certificate

Happy participants showing off their certificates

For more details about the Girls in ICT program and upcoming training opportunities, please reach out to us: [email protected] | +232 76 178006 | www.starcatchup.org