Cardano Ghana: Onboarding Tech Hubs & Developers.

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

3

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

Engage 150 tech hub developers in an intensive catalyst onboarding initiative, fostering widespread Cardano education and robust developer engagement in project catalyst to drive Cardano innovation.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

N/A

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

The project's content, tools, and educational materials will be accessible through an open-source repository, allowing others to modify, adapt, and share them. We intend to use the MIT License for this project, as it promotes free usage, modification, and distribution while providing necessary credit to the original creators.

Key elements of the project that will be open source include:

• Course Materials and Curricula: All educational content, including modules on blockchain fundamentals, Cardano, and related technologies.
• Software Tools and Resources: Any custom-built tools, interactive learning modules, or simulations developed to enhance the learning experience.
• Documentation and Guides: Comprehensive guides for students, teachers, and facilitators to use and expand upon the provided materials.

By making our resources open source, we aim to contribute to the global blockchain education ecosystem and empower more communities to learn, innovate, and share knowledge about Cardano and blockchain technology.

[METADATA] Horizons

Incubator

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Problem Perception:

 

Ghanaian tech hubs lack exposure to blockchain education, limiting developer participation in emerging technologies like Cardano. This absence of education not only hinders the adoption of innovative blockchain solutions but also deprives developers of opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technologies and contribute to global blockchain ecosystems.

 

Reasoning:

 

We recognize the critical need to address this gap in blockchain education within Ghanaian tech hubs. To democratize access and make Cardano education inclusive and accessible, we have chosen a non-technical approach. By removing barriers related to technical complexity, we aim to broaden the developer audience and foster widespread engagement with Cardano.

 

Engagement:

 

Our proposed solution focuses on a 3-month non-technical Cardano onboarding initiative targeting 150 developers across prominent tech hubs in Ghana, including HOPin Academy, HapaSpace, and Ghana Tech Lab. By partnering with these established hubs, we leverage their networks and resources to reach a diverse and skilled community of developers. Through workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of Cardano's principles, ecosystem, and potential applications.

 

Impact Demonstration:

 

The success of our initiative will be demonstrated through measurable metrics, including the number of developers onboarded, levels of engagement, and post-program success stories. A robust evaluation framework will be implemented to assess the impact of the initiative on participants' knowledge acquisition, skill development, and career advancement. Testimonials, case studies, and feedback from participants will provide tangible evidence of the initiative's effectiveness in bridging the blockchain education gap and empowering developers.

 

Uniqueness:

 

Our initiative stands out for its non-technical focus, making Cardano education approachable to a wider audience. By collaborating with major tech hubs, we ensure a sustainable and widespread impact that extends beyond individual participants. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, we aim to create a ripple effect, inspiring further adoption and innovation within the Cardano ecosystem and beyond.

 

Beneficiaries:

 

The primary beneficiaries of our initiative are developers, tech hubs, and the Cardano ecosystem as a whole. Empowered developers enhance Cardano's talent pool, driving innovation, and growth within the ecosystem. Tech hubs benefit from expanded programming and increased engagement, strengthening their position as hubs of innovation and knowledge dissemination. Ultimately, the entire Cardano community benefits from a more diverse and skilled workforce, capable of driving the ecosystem's evolution and sustainability.

 

Relevance & Impact:

 

This initiative aligns closely with Cardano's vision of inclusivity and global participation. By empowering developers from diverse backgrounds and regions, we ensure that Cardano's ecosystem reflects the richness and diversity of the global community. This initiative reinforces Cardano's commitment to education, community building, and sustainable growth, laying the groundwork for a vibrant and inclusive ecosystem that drives positive change on a global scale.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Positive Impact:

 

Our project enriches the Cardano community by expanding its developer base, fostering diversity, and promoting widespread blockchain education. The success of our initiative will bring value in several ways:

 

Increased Developer Pool: By onboarding 150 developers, we augment Cardano's talent pool, enhancing the ecosystem's capacity for innovation and development. The influx of new talent injects fresh perspectives and expertise, driving progress and creativity within the Cardano community.

 

Diversity and Inclusion: Engaging developers from different tech hubs promotes diversity, ensuring a variety of perspectives and skill sets contribute to Cardano's growth in Ghana. This diversity fosters a more inclusive and resilient ecosystem, capable of addressing a wide range of challenges and opportunities.

 

Educational Contribution: The project's educational focus strengthens the understanding of Cardano within the community, fostering informed contributions and collaboration. By providing developers with comprehensive training and resources, we empower them to actively participate in the Cardano ecosystem, driving innovation and growth.

 

Measurement of Impact:

 

We will employ both quantitative and qualitative metrics to measure impact:

 

Quantitative Metrics:

·      The number of developers onboarded - 150

·      Participation levels in Cardano-related activities.

·      Increased use of Cardano tools and resources.

 

Qualitative Metrics:

·      Developer testimonials and feedback - learn about Haskell and other Cardano languages to build on Cardano

·      Success stories and projects initiated by onboarded developers.

·      Surveys assessing the perceived value and impact of the onboarding initiative.

 

Sharing Outputs:

 

Outputs and opportunities resulting from the project will be shared through:

 

Community Reports: Regular reports detailing progress, achievements, and challenges will be shared with the Cardano community via our dedicated webpage on x.com/cardanoghana. These reports will provide transparent insights into the project's impact and outcomes, fostering trust and accountability within the community.

 

Webinars and Workshops: Hosting sessions to share insights, best practices, and success stories, providing educational opportunities for the wider community. These interactive sessions will facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration, empowering participants to leverage Cardano's capabilities for positive change.

 

Social Media and Forums: Utilizing platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and official Cardano forums to share updates, engage with the community, and encourage discussions around the project's impact. By actively participating in online conversations, we amplify our reach and encourage broader engagement with Cardano's mission and vision.

 

Collaboration Opportunities: Actively seeking collaborations with other Cardano projects and initiatives, amplifying the overall positive impact within the Cardano ecosystem. By partnering with like-minded organizations and initiatives, we leverage collective expertise and resources, driving greater progress towards shared goals.

 

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Capability & Feasibility:

 

Existing Capabilities:

 

Our project leverages a robust foundation of capabilities to ensure successful delivery and foster trust:

 

Experienced Project Manager: Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu, a seasoned Cardano advocate and Ambassador since December 2022, leads the initiative. With a background in business administration and ICT, Mohammed brings over (8) years of experience in organizing youth events, education, and community development projects. His expertise in project management and his deep understanding of the Cardano ecosystem make him well-suited to lead this initiative.

 

Cardano hoodie from https://store.cardano.org

Established Community Presence: The Cardano Ghana Community, founded by Mohammed, boasts an active team and engaged community members. Since its inception, the community has organized numerous events, including Cardano meetups and educational initiatives, to promote blockchain education and adoption in Ghana. This established presence provides a solid foundation for our project and ensures a ready-made audience of stakeholders eager to participate.

 

Educational Initiatives: Previous Cardano meetups and annual Cardano Summit co-hosting demonstrate our commitment to education and community building. These initiatives have provided valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration within the Cardano community. By building on these past successes, we can effectively engage developers and foster a culture of learning and innovation within the ecosystem.

 

Trust and Accountability:

 

To validate our approach and ensure accountability, we will implement the following steps:

 

Transparent Budgeting: A detailed and transparent budget will be provided, outlining how funds will be allocated to each aspect of the project. This budget will be developed in consultation with stakeholders and will reflect our commitment to responsible financial management.

 

Regular Reporting: We commit to providing regular progress reports, including achievements, challenges, and key milestones. These reports will be shared with the Cardano community and will provide transparent insights into the project's progress and impact.

 

Community Engagement: Involving the Cardano community in decision-making and seeking feedback enhances transparency. We will actively solicit input from community members and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives are considered.

 

Measurable Metrics: The project's success will be measured through quantifiable metrics, such as the number of developers onboarded and their subsequent contributions to the Cardano ecosystem. These metrics will be tracked and evaluated regularly to assess the project's impact and effectiveness.

 

By combining experienced leadership, an active community, and a commitment to transparency, our project is feasible and poised to deliver significant value to the Cardano community.

 

Events:

Some of the notable events organized by Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu and the Cardano Ghana Community include Cardano meetups at various university campuses, where they have engaged students and faculty members in discussions about blockchain technology and the Cardano ecosystem. These events have provided valuable opportunities for education, networking, and community building, further demonstrating Mohammed's dedication to advancing blockchain education and adoption in Ghana.

Recap:

https://forum.cardano.org/t/cardano-ghana-community-launch-success-update/124121

https://forum.cardano.org/t/cardano-summit-2023-community-led-event-success-in-kumasi-ghana/123819/3

https://forum.cardano.org/t/growing-the-cardano-ghana-community/128075

https://forum.cardano.org/t/cardano-ghana-drep-meetup-held-in-tamale/129528

 

Track Record & Completed Catalyst Projects:

Below are some of our completed and successful projects:

 

Fund9: Catalyst Campus Train - https://youtu.be/M9ak6z-bd_s?si=KPvuTnJVjU3d_UNi

 

Cardano Ghana Community Launch - https://youtu.be/lDwspVGpOiw?si=HFcREMBCP5Vrg1AY

 

Close-out report video for Cardano Ghana Community project in Fund10 - https://youtu.be/nxfmLlG0j4c?si=qvjyDXQHJ-EW2D2P

 

F11: Catalyst Working Group (CWG) Workshop coverage on TV - https://youtu.be/ouwH4e6C04U?si=EqHjJhiTRO6TWj8c

 

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Milestone 1: Engaging, Educating, and Onboarding Developers from HOPin Academy, Tamale - Ghana

 

A training on Digital Skills at HOPin Academy

Description:

Initiate the onboarding process for developers at HOPin Academy,

Tamale, to integrate them into Cardano's Project Catalyst.

Hub site -

https://www.hopinacademy.org/

 

Milestone Output(s):

Conduct a series of introductory workshops and sessions on

Cardano's fundamentals.

Ensure active participation and engagement of at least 50

developers from HOPin Academy.

Distribute educational resources and materials to enhance

developers' understanding of Cardano in Ghana.

 

Acceptance Criteria:

Achieve an 80% attendance rate from targeted developers at the

introductory workshop.

Receive feedback forms indicating a satisfactory level of

understanding and interest in Cardano.

Confirm that at least 50 developers successfully create and set

up Cardano wallets, demonstrating practical onboarding.

 

Successful completion of Milestone 1 will

establish a strong foundation for ongoing engagement and education within the

HOPin Academy community, contributing to the project's overall objective of

onboarding 150 developers across all three tech hubs.

Milestone 2: Engaging, Educating, and Onboarding Developers from HapaSpace, Kumasi - Ghana.

 

Description:

Execute the onboarding process for developers at HapaSpace, Kumasi, fostering their integration into Cardano's Project Catalyst.

Hub site - https://hapafoundation.org/

Milestone Output(s):

Conduct targeted workshops and educational sessions tailored for the HapaSpace developer community.

Ensure active engagement and participation from at least 50 developers.

Distribute educational materials, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of Cardano and its ecosystem.

 

Acceptance Criteria:

Achieve a workshop attendance rate of 75% or higher among HapaSpace developers.

Collect feedback indicating a positive reception of Cardano concepts and a willingness to explore further.

Verify that a minimum of 50 developers complete practical onboarding tasks, such as creating a Cardano wallet.

 

Completion of Milestone 2 signifies a significant advancement towards the overall goal, contributing to diverse engagement and education of developers across various tech hubs in Ghana.

 

Final Milestone: Engaging, Educating, and Onboarding Developers from Ghana Tech Lab (GTL), Accra - Ghana

 

Description:

Conclude the onboarding process for developers at Ghana Tech Lab

(GTL), achieving the overarching goal of educating, engaging, and onboarding

150 developers across the three major tech hubs in Ghana.

Hub site -

https://www.ghanatechlab.com/

Milestone Output(s):

Implement tailored workshops and educational sessions to

effectively engage the Ghana Tech Lab developer community.

Ensure active participation and engagement from at least 50

developers.

Distribute comprehensive educational materials, consolidating

understanding and enthusiasm for Cardano.

 

Acceptance Criteria:

Attain a workshop attendance rate of 70% or higher among GTL

developers.

Gather positive feedback indicating a grasp of Cardano

principles and a commitment to further exploration.

Verify that a minimum of 50 developers complete practical

onboarding tasks, demonstrating their readiness to contribute to Cardano's

Project Catalyst.

 

Final Project Goal Achievement:

Upon successful completion of the Final Milestone, the project

will achieve its overarching goal of educating, engaging, and onboarding 150

developers from HOPin Academy, HapaSpace, and Ghana Tech Lab into Cardano's

Project Catalyst. This accomplishment marks a significant contribution to

Cardano's developer ecosystem and its growth within the Ghanaian tech community.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

The project team comprises individuals with diverse skill sets and expertise, all dedicated to the successful execution of the proposal:

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu - As Project Manager, Mohammed oversees the entire project, drawing on his extensive experience as a Cardano Ambassador and Funded Proposer for Catalyst Fund 9 and Fund 10. Mustapha has led the organization of 20+ Cardano events in Ghana since 2021, and hence, has rich experience in planning, coordinating, executing and reporting the outcomes of events. He is good at team leadership and has strong networking and collaborative skills in his network.

 

Seidu Ziblim - Seidu is a funded proposer in Catalyst Fund11 and Fund12 with strong skills in organizing events and coordinating resources for a successful completion of projects. He also handles graphics, printing, swag and logistics of events. He is responsible for designing Cardano events graphics, printing T-shirts, branded key holders, tags, brochures, handouts and other amazing swag. Seidu also works with the videography and photography team to ensure the right coverage of the event is done by the media team.

Left - Mohammed Mustapha & Right - Seidu Ziblim

Cardano Ghana Team and Volunteers:

The proejct will be supported by the committed team and volunteers of the Cardano Ghana Community who has been working with Mohammed Mustapha and Seidu Ziblim to deliver proejcts.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 1:

 

Educational Workshops:

·      Workshop materials, venue rental, and logistics.

·      Cost: 3,000 ADA.

Onboarding Resources:

·      Development of educational content, documentation, and onboarding tools.

·      Cost: 2,000 ADA.

 

Community Engagement:

·      Marketing materials, social media promotion, and community outreach.

·      Cost: 2,000 ADA.

 

Project Management:

·      Coordination, communication tools, and project oversight.

·      Cost: 1,500 ADA.

 

Documentation and Reporting:

·      Compilation of progress reports, documentation tools, and reporting.

·      Cost: 1,500 ADA.

 

Contingency Fund:

·      Unforeseen expenses or adjustments to the project plan.

·      Cost: 1,000 ADA.

 

Total Budget for Milestone 1: 10,000 ADA

 

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 2:

 

Educational Workshops:

·      Workshop materials, venue rental, and logistics.

·      Cost: 5,000 ADA.

 

Onboarding Resources:

·      Development of educational content, documentation, and onboarding tools.

·      Cost: 3,000 ADA.

 

Community Engagement:

·      Marketing materials, social media promotion, and community outreach.

·      Cost: 2,000 ADA.

 

Project Management:

·      Coordination, communication tools, and project oversight.

·      Cost: 1,500 ADA.

 

Documentation and Reporting:

·      Compilation of progress reports, documentation tools, and reporting.

·      Cost: 1,000 ADA.

 

Contingency Fund:

·      Unforeseen expenses or adjustments to the project plan.

·      Cost: 1,500 ADA.

 

Total Budget for Milestone 2: 13,000 ADA

 

Budget Breakdown for Final Milestone:

 

Educational Workshops:

·      Workshop materials, venue rental, and logistics.

·      Cost: 7,000 ADA.

 

Onboarding Resources:

·      Development of educational content, documentation, and onboarding tools.

·      Cost: 5,000 ADA.

 

Community Engagement:

·      Marketing materials, social media promotion, and community outreach.

·      Cost: 6,000 ADA.

 

Project Management:

·      Coordination, communication tools, and project oversight.

·      Cost: 4,000 ADA.

 

Documentation and Reporting:

·      Compilation of progress reports, documentation tools, and reporting.

·      Cost: 2,500 ADA.

 

Contingency Fund:

·      Unforeseen expenses or adjustments to the project plan.

·      Cost: 2,500 ADA.

 

Total Budget for Final Milestone: 27,000 ADA

 

Third-Party Services:

No third-party services requiring additional costs are anticipated. All proposed activities can be effectively managed by the internal project team.

 

Alternative Funding Sources:

In case the project exceeds the total budget of 50,000 ADA, potential alternative funding sources may include partnerships with local organizations or seeking additional community support. However, the proposed budget is designed to cover all aspects of the project effectively.

 

Total Budget for all Milestones:

10,000 ADA (Milestone 1) + 13,000 ADA (Milestone 2) + 27,000 ADA (Final Milestone) = 50,000 ADA.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

Explanation of Value for Money:

 

The breakdown of costs for the proposed project signifies a prudent distribution of resources, aimed at maximizing value for the Cardano ecosystem. Here's why the expenses are justified:

 

Educational Workshops (15,000 ADA):

Rationale: This allocation covers expenses such as venue rental, materials, and logistics for comprehensive workshops. This investment directly enhances education and engagement, essential for expanding the Cardano developer community effectively.

 

Onboarding Resources (10,000 ADA):

Rationale: This budget supports the development of high-quality educational content, documentation, and onboarding tools. Investing in these resources ensures a seamless onboarding process, encouraging active and sustainable participation from developers.

 

Community Engagement (8,000 ADA):

Rationale: Marketing materials, social media promotion, and community outreach are pivotal for raising awareness and fostering engagement. This investment reflects Cardano's commitment to inclusivity and global participation, vital for building a vibrant ecosystem.

 

Project Management (7,000 ADA):

Rationale: Efficient project management is crucial for successful execution. This cost includes coordination, communication tools, and oversight, ensuring that the project progresses on schedule and achieves its objectives effectively.

 

Documentation and Reporting (5,000 ADA):

Rationale: Transparent reporting is essential for accountability and maintaining community trust. This budget covers the compilation of progress reports and documentation tools, providing clear insights into the project's impact and ensuring transparency.

 

Contingency Fund (5,000 ADA):

Rationale: Unexpected expenses may arise during project implementation. The contingency fund allows for adaptability and flexibility, enabling the project to address unforeseen challenges effectively.

 

Cost Justification:

 

The proposed costs are based on a realistic assessment of the project's requirements. While not directly linked to average wages or freelance rates, the budget is aligned with the project's goals and expected impact, ensuring a balanced and impactful utilization of the allocated 50,000 ADA.

 

In summary, the allocated funds are proportional to the project's objectives, demonstrating a commitment to delivering value for money and making a significant contribution to the growth and inclusivity of the Cardano ecosystem.