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Digital Minds Academy

DMA

Digital Minds Academy empowers underprivileged youth in Burundi especially girls by equipping them with digital and ICT skills to bridge the digital divide in rural communities. Through after-school training, mentorship, and creative technology projects. Our innovation not only boosts academic and career opportunities but also inspires youth to become digital changemakers in their communities.

Overview

Information on this page is provided by the innovator and has not been evaluated by HundrED.

Updated November 2025
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Target group
Through Digital Minds Academy (DMA), I hope to see a more inclusive education where all students, especially the underserved, gain digital skills and creativity. DMA bridges the gap between school and real-life needs by teaching ICT and problem-solving, helping youth become confident, job-ready, and tech creators in their communities.

About the innovation

Why did you create this innovation?

I created this innovation because many students in my community lack access to digital education and skills. As a computer science teacher, I saw that most students, especially in rural areas, have little or no experience with technology. This puts them at a disadvantage in today’s world where digital knowledge is essential for learning, employment, and innovation.

Also, I noticed that even schools with some resources often don’t know how to use them effectively. I wanted to change that by offering practical, low-cost, and inclusive training that helps students gain real ICT skills, build confidence, and use digital tools to solve local problems.

Through this innovation, I aim to bridge the digital divide, promote equal opportunities, and empower youth—especially girls—to become problem solvers and changemakers in their communities. My goal is to ensure that no student is left behind in the digital age.

What does your innovation look like in practice?

Digital Minds Academy (DMA) is a learning platform that helps young people and adults gain digital skills needed for today’s job market. Our innovation combines online and offline training to make learning easy and accessible for everyone.
In practice, DMA offers courses on computer basics, coding, digital marketing, and other tech skills. We organize workshops in schools and community centers where participants can practice using computers and the internet. Through virtual classes, students from remote areas can also join and learn without traveling.We focus on practical skills that learners can use to find jobs or start their own businesses. For example, after completing a course on social media marketing, students can help local businesses grow their online presence.DMA also supports learners with mentoring and career advice. We connect them with professionals in the tech industry who guide them on how to apply their skills in real life.Our innovation solves the problem of digital skill gaps in many communities, especially in rural areas where access to technology is limited. By bringing digital education closer to learners, DMA helps improve employment opportunities and supports economic growth.

Overall, DMA is more than just training it is a community where people empower each other to succeed in the digital world.

How has it been spreading?

DMA has been growing step by step through word of mouth and partnerships. We started with small groups in local schools and community centers, where participants shared their positive experiences with friends and family. This helped attract more learners.

We also collaborate with local organizations, NGOs, and government programs that support digital education and youth empowerment. These partnerships help us reach more communities, especially in rural areas.

Thanks to social media and online platforms, we share success stories and course information, which encourages more people to join DMA.

As more students complete our courses and use their new skills to find jobs or start businesses, the reputation of DMA spreads naturally. This creates a cycle of growth and impact.

In summary, DMA spreads through community trust, strong partnerships, and digital communication, making digital learning accessible to many more people every day.

How have you modified or added to your innovation?

Since starting DMA, we have made several changes to better meet the needs of our learners. At first, we focused only on basic digital skills, but we realized many wanted more advanced topics like coding, digital marketing, and graphic design. So, we added new courses in these areas.

We also improved our teaching methods by combining in-person workshops with online lessons, making learning flexible and accessible for people in different locations.

To support learners with limited internet access, we developed offline materials and mobile-friendly content.

Additionally, we started working closely with local businesses to create internships and job opportunities for our graduates, helping them apply their skills in real work environments.

We regularly gather feedback from students and partners to keep improving the program, ensuring DMA stays relevant and effective.

If I want to try it, what should I do?

If you want to try DMA, you can start by filling out a Google Form that we share to register offline. Our courses are mainly offered in-person, but we also provide some virtual support through WhatsApp or email. After registering, we will contact you with the schedule and details.

You can ask any questions anytime, and we will guide you through the process step by step. No website is needed, just your interest and willingness to learn!

Implementation steps

How to Start Using Digital Minds Academy (DMA)
1. Identify your learners
2. Set clear goals
3. Prepare training materials
4. Organize training sessions
5. Engage participants
6. Track progress
7. Evaluate learning
8. Encourage application

Spread of the innovation

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