Empowering Youth through digital skills – A visit from the Israeli Ambassador
On Thursday, May 22, 2025, Gitega Study Space had the distinct honor of welcoming Her Excellency, the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Burundi, along with her esteemed delegation, for a momentous occasion — the graduation of 40 young participants from the Basic Computer Training Program. This milestone marks not only the end of a training cycle but also the beginning of a new chapter in digital empowerment for these ambitious youth. Over the course of the training, participants were introduced to a range of essential digital skills, including: These competencies are designed to equip young learners with practical knowledge that enhances their professional readiness and opens doors to new career opportunities. In her inspiring keynote, Her Excellency emphasized the critical role of digital skills in today’s interconnected world. She noted: She further reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting youth-centered initiatives like this one, underlining the importance of continued collaboration and innovation. As the implementing partner, Free Tech Institute is proud to be part of this transformative journey. We are inspired by the determination and curiosity these youth have shown and remain committed to fostering a future driven by opportunity, innovation, and success. We salute the graduates for their hard work and growth. May this achievement be just the beginning of a bright digital future! Advaxe NDAYISENGAAdvaxe Ndayisenga is a Burundian senior Web and Software Developer with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from East African Leadership Institute. With over five years of experience in web and software development, he specializes in WordPress, Prestashop, social media marketing, and SEO audits. He is the Director and Business Development Manager at LA TECH BURUNDI COMPANY, where he also works as a Fullstack Developer. Additionally, he served as a Fullstack Developer at Media Box Burundi S.A, where he focused on developing software for government and NGO clients. A seasoned Networking Manager and social media marketing specialist, he contributes to the field as a trainer, speaker, and event organizer at Students for Liberty as a Local Coordinator, and as a representative for Great Lakes Marketing and Communication (MARCOM). As a UPG Sustainability Legacy Ambassador, he graduated as a UPG Leader in 2022 and a UPG Biashara Entrepreneur in 2023, actively promoting liberty, love, and sustainability within the community. He continues his education at Atlas Network Academy, Lurn, and FutureLearn, where he has developed strong skills in managing emotions, fear, and leading projects effectively. He has enhanced his expertise through various platforms including Developpez.com, SoloLearn, OpenClassrooms, Microverse, and British Council, gaining valuable experience in group work, time management, online course facilitation, and creating creative and responsive web content. Fluent in Kirundi (mother tongue), English, French, and Kiswahili, he brings a multilingual perspective to his work. www.latechburundi.org
Digital Inclusion of Youth: Our visit to the community technical school
Monday, September 23, 2024, we had the opportunity to visit the Community Technical School, a key moment to share our vision and projects with motivated students eager to learn more about digital technologies and their applications in their future. Presentation of the Free Tech Institute Project Free Tech Institute is a Burundian non-governmental organization dedicated to the social entrepreneurship of youth, focused on new information and communication technologies. Our project, titled “Digital Inclusion of Secondary School Youth through Digital Technology,” aims to transform Burundian society by providing young people with the necessary tools to succeed in an increasingly digital world. The Gitega Study Space Gitega Study Space is a learning center where students can acquire computer skills, conduct research related to their studies, and encourage one another. We place special emphasis on encouraging young girls to engage with technology, as we believe that gender equality in the tech field is essential for the future. Importance of Technology During our discussions with the students, several key points were highlighted regarding the importance of technology in their academic and professional lives: Conclusion This visit to the Community Technical School was a wonderful opportunity to engage with determined young people. We firmly believe that digital inclusion is essential for their future. By providing them with access to technology and the necessary skills, we are contributing to building a generation of Burundian youth ready to face the challenges of the modern world. Some pictures from the visit! Advaxe NDAYISENGA