Employable skills - Competency Framework matching learned skills with REAL world jobs

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Nathan Barkell

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

Entity (Incorporated)

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

9

[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)

We will partner with SFIA, the world leading skills and competency framework, to create a Cardano/Blockchain Competency Framework that aligns OLI courses with real world employment opportunities.

[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.”

No Dependencies

[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

This competency framework will be fully open sourced and will be available under the GNU GPL.

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

We propose developing a Competency Framework that directly links courses on the OLI education platform to real world job skills that employers are looking for. This initiative addresses the critical gap in structured education that aligns with industry needs, thereby enhancing learners' career advancement and recognition. This also creates clear benefits for Cardano in terms of marketing, user adoption, and ecosystem growth.

Marketing Advantages:

• Positioning Cardano as a Leader: By developing a comprehensive Competency Framework, Cardano can position itself as a pioneer in blockchain education. This unique offering will differentiate Cardano from competitors and enhance its brand recognition in the education and blockchain sectors.
• Attracting Partnerships: Our approach leverages our established relationship with the developers of the SFIA Competency Framework, ensuring we benefit from their expertise and insights in creating a robust and relevant educational structure.
• By engaging with various stakeholders—including industry experts, employers, and educators—we will conduct workshops and focus groups to identify the competencies that are most in demand. This collaborative engagement guarantees that our framework remains aligned with the latest trends and technologies, making it a living resource that evolves with the industry.

User Adoption:

• Enhanced Learning Experience: By integrating industry-recognized competencies into the curriculum, users will gain relevant skills that are directly applicable in the job market. This increases the perceived value of Cardano's educational offerings, attracting more learners to the platform.
• Recognition System for Achievements: Implementing a system for digital badges and certificates will empower learners to showcase their skills on professional platforms like LinkedIn. This can significantly facilitate career advancement, and increase employability in the rapidly growing blockchain and fintech sectors. This recognition not only motivates users but also enhances the visibility of Cardano's educational initiatives, driving user adoption.

Ecosystem Growth:

• Fostering a Skilled Workforce: By equipping learners with critical competencies, we will cultivate a workforce ready to engage with and contribute to the Cardano ecosystem. This skilled talent pool can drive innovation, enhance project development, and attract new initiatives within the blockchain space.
• Continuous Improvement Through Feedback: The framework will incorporate ongoing feedback from learners and employers to ensure it remains relevant and effective. This adaptability will keep Cardano's educational resources aligned with market demands, encouraging sustained user engagement and ecosystem growth.

The framework's development will be user-centric, incorporating input from learners to ensure it meets their needs and expectations. Through design workshops, we will gather insights from participants, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance in the educational content.

Moreover, we will establish a continuous improvement process that incorporates feedback from both learners and employers. This feedback loop will allow us to adapt the framework based on real-world experiences and changing market demands, ensuring it remains effective and up-to-date.

This comprehensive approach not only prepares learners for successful careers in blockchain and fintech but also strengthens the Cardano ecosystem by cultivating a skilled workforce that is essential for the platform's growth and sustainability. By fostering education that bridges the gap between learning and industry recognition, we are committed to driving positive social impact and promoting a more inclusive and knowledgeable community within Cardano.

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

Our project is poised to make a significant positive impact on the Cardano community by establishing a structured competency framework that aligns educational offerings with industry-recognised skills. This initiative will empower learners with the knowledge and credentials necessary for successful careers in the blockchain sector, ultimately fostering a more informed and skilled user base within the Cardano ecosystem.

The success of our project will bring substantial value to the Cardano community in several ways:

1. Enhanced Employability: By linking OLI courses to critical competencies, we will provide learners with skills that are in high demand, thereby increasing their employability and career advancement opportunities. This will attract more individuals to the Cardano ecosystem, contributing to its growth and sustainability.
2. Community Empowerment: Our focus on inclusivity ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds can access quality education and professional development. By empowering underrepresented groups, we contribute to a more equitable and diverse community within Cardano.
3. Collaborative Knowledge Sharing: The feedback mechanisms we implement will not only enhance our framework but also facilitate knowledge sharing among learners, educators, and industry stakeholders. This collaborative spirit will strengthen community ties and drive innovation within the ecosystem.

To measure our impact, we will employ both quantitative and qualitative metrics, including:

• User Engagement Metrics: Tracking the number of course enrolments, completion rates, and the engagement levels of learners will provide insights into the framework's effectiveness.
• Employment Outcomes: We will survey participants post-completion to assess their job placements and advancements, helping us understand the real-world impact of our educational offerings.
• Feedback and Testimonials: Gathering qualitative feedback from learners and employers will offer valuable insights into the perceived value of the competencies and recognitions provided through our framework.

We will share our outputs and the opportunities resulting from our project through various channels, including community forums, webinars, and partnerships with educational organisations. By actively engaging with the Cardano community, we aim to promote our initiatives, celebrate success stories, and facilitate discussions on continuous improvement.

[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?

Our team possesses a unique blend of educational expertise, technological innovation, and strategic leadership, positioning us to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability. Our collective experience spans over several decades in education, technology, marketing, and community engagement, providing a robust foundation for executing this initiative.

To ensure the feasibility of our approach, we leverage proven methodologies and established partnerships, particularly with SFIA, which guarantees that our Competency Framework aligns with industry-recognised standards. This collaboration enhances our credibility and provides access to a wealth of knowledge regarding current trends and essential skills in the financial and blockchain sectors.

We are committed to transparency and responsible financial management throughout the project lifecycle. Our established processes for fund management include:

1. Regular Financial Audits: We will conduct periodic audits to ensure all expenditures are justified and align with project goals.
2. Detailed Budgeting: Our budget is based on industry standards and typical rates for freelance and professional services, ensuring that all costs are reasonable and proportional to the value delivered.
3. Stakeholder Reporting: We will maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders, providing regular updates on progress and financial status to foster trust and accountability.
4. Feedback Mechanisms: By incorporating continuous feedback from learners and industry partners, we can adjust our approach as needed, ensuring that we remain aligned with community needs and expectations.

Our team's commitment to nurturing informed digital citizens and facilitating meaningful learning experiences drives our passion for this project. With a proven track record in education and technology, we are well-equipped to manage this initiative effectively, ensuring that the competencies developed will significantly benefit learners and the broader Cardano ecosystem.

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

Milestone 1: Research and Development Phase

Output: Defined competencies and stakeholder engagement report.

Acceptance Criteria: Stakeholder feedback confirming the relevance of identified skills and competencies, and alignment with industry needs.

Evidence accepted:

Competency Framework Document - Outlines defined competencies with descriptions and industry relevance.

Stakeholder Feedback Summary - Brief report summarizing feedback on competency relevance and alignment with industry needs.

Stakeholder Confirmation - Written endorsements or statements from stakeholders validating the competencies.

Milestone 2: Framework Design Phase

Output: Draft of the Competency Framework, including the integration plan with the OLI platform.

Acceptance Criteria: Approval from stakeholders, demonstrating readiness for pilot testing and clear integration pathways.

Evidence criteria:

Draft Competency Framework Document - Includes competency details and a preliminary integration plan with the OLI platform.

Stakeholder Approval - Documented approval from stakeholders indicating readiness for pilot testing.

Integration Pathways Outline - Brief summary showing how the framework will integrate with the OLI platform.

Milestone 3: Pilot Testing Phase

Output: Feedback report from pilot learners and employers assessing the framework's effectiveness.

Acceptance Criteria: Documented insights that lead to actionable adjustments in the framework, ensuring it meets user needs.

Evidence criteria:

Feedback Report - A summary of pilot learners’ and employers’ feedback on the framework’s effectiveness.

Insights Summary - Key insights from feedback, highlighting areas for improvement and user needs.

Actionable Adjustments Log - Record of specific adjustments made to the framework based on feedback.

Milestone 4 : Full Implementation Phase

Output: Fully operational Competency Framework embedded in the OLI platform.

Acceptance Criteria: Positive feedback from early adopters and initial metrics indicating increased learner engagement and job placement success.

Evidence criteria:

Operational Framework Documentation - Confirmation that the Competency Framework is fully integrated and functional on the OLI platform.

Early Adopter Feedback Summary - A report of positive feedback from initial users, indicating satisfaction with the framework.

Initial Metrics Report - Early metrics showing increased learner engagement and job placement success.

Final Milestone - Project Close-out Report and Summary Video

• Comprehensive final report covering key findings, project achievements, lessons learned, and next steps.
• Accompanying video summarizing the project and promoting the vision and future goals.

Acceptance Criteria

• Completion of a detailed close-out report, including all milestones and actionable recommendations for the next phases.
• Creation of a video communicating the project’s impact, vision, and future roadmap.
• Successful dissemination of the report and video to stakeholders, potential partners, and the wider community.

Evidence of Completion

• Submission of the final report and video, including documentation of key findings and next steps.
• Proof of distribution to stakeholders, along with evidence of public sharing (e.g., social media, newsletters, or community channels).

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

Nathan Barkell, Co-Founder - https://twitter.com/Nate_Olympus

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-barkell/

With a decade of teaching Mathematics, Science, Health, and Phys Ed in Australia, Nathan has a profound commitment to education. His transition into the tech world led him to create over 100 lessons on Cryptocurrency, Finance, and broader web3 topics, specifically designed to engage the next generation of Cardano and blockchain enthusiasts. Nathan's unique blend of educational expertise and tech innovation positions him as a pivotal force in nurturing informed digital citizens.

Mark Elliot, Co-Founder - https://twitter.com/stocktrade2036

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markelliott10/

Mark brings over 20 years of senior management experience from leading telecommunications organisations in Australia, coupled with a decade at the helm of his own software and AI development company. His extensive background in technology management and entrepreneurship equips him with a nuanced understanding of how to steer companies through complex digital landscapes and innovate at the intersection of software development and strategic leadership.

Alex Burton - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexjburton/

With 25 years in Sales and Marketing, Alex has a seasoned track record with Australia's largest organisations, including banks, warehouses, and utility companies. His deep industry knowledge and ability to craft compelling market strategies have been instrumental in forging lasting relationships and driving significant business growth.

James Maryan, Digital Product Lead - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-maryan/

James is a mastermind in developing both mobile and web applications for some of Australia's most significant entities, including banks and utility companies. His expertise in transforming complex requirements into user-centric digital solutions makes him a key asset in leading our product development to new heights.

Kate Smith, Senior UX/UI Designer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katesmithux/

Kate's extensive experience with major companies has honed her ability to design intuitive and engaging user interfaces. Her work reflects a deep understanding of user psychology, making her an essential player in creating digital experiences that are not only functional but also delightful and user-friendly.

Razali "Raz" Samsudin -Global Partnerships Director, Ecosystem and Impact Advisor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/razali-samsudin

Raz is the Director Strategic Global Partnerships for Olympus Insights, Co-founder of Sustainable ADA and Impact Web3, and Co-author of the first Cardano Impact Report. He has 17+ years of experience as an educator and impact change maker.

Sarah Margono-Samsudin - Advisor

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-margono-samsudin-a1b41b99/ 

Expert on Education for Sustainable Development 

Instant Network School (Vodafone Foundation), ex. UNESCO/ ex. CDP (formerly known as Carbon Disclosure Project). Sarah Margono Samsudin is a dedicated professional currently working at Instant Network Schools, a collaboration between Vodafone Foundation and UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency), where she contributes to expanding access to quality digital education for children in refugee camps and marginalized communities. Passionate about achieving quality education for all with a focus on education for sustainable development, Sarah plays a key role in implementing innovative solutions that empower learners with the skills they need to tackle global challenges and thrive in their personal lives. Her work focuses on bridging educational gaps and enhancing the teaching and learning experience for marginal youth through the use of technology.

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

AG Nieve, Full Stack Developer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ag-nieve-a9105627b/

AG is a versatile full stack developer whose proficiency spans across the entire development stack. Their adaptability and technical acumen enable them to deliver robust and scalable solutions that drive the core functionality of our products.

Rolando Ravelle, Full Stack Developer

Rolando's expertise as a full stack developer is marked by his ability to integrate both front-end and back-end technologies seamlessly. His commitment to excellence and continuous improvement contributes significantly to our team's ability to deliver cutting-edge and reliable digital solutions.

April Joy, Full Stack Developer

April's passion for technology and problem-solving is evident in her work as a full stack developer. Her collaborative approach and keen attention to detail ensure that every line of code not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of quality and performance.

NIGERIAN AMBASSADOR TEAM

Joseph Pius - Country Manager - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-pius-23b59419a/

I am an accomplished Data Analyst with extensive experience in the dynamic fintech landscape, driven by my passion for exploring the complexities of blockchain technology. My journey in this industry is supported by a diverse skill set that includes business development, community management, growth marketing, and campaign management. My meticulous attention to detail enhances my ability to perform precise account reconciliations, while my expertise in digital marketing is finely tuned to the blockchain sector. I am excited to contribute to OLI’s mission of empowering learners through innovative education.

Samson Anthony - Events and Partnerships Lead - https://x.com/OffIchieBannies

As the Events Lead for OLI Nigeria, I bring five years of robust experience in content and marketing within the web3 space. I am passionate about creating engaging events that foster connections and collaboration in the community. I am excited to leverage my expertise to enhance OLI’s outreach and build valuable partnerships that align with our mission to empower learners globally.

Ima-Abasi Pius - Social Media Manager - https://x.com/mrrpiusz

I am a seasoned web3 marketer with over four years of experience driving the success of prominent web3 projects. My specialisation lies in effective communication, where I excel in crafting compelling articles, micro-content, and designs that resonate with target audiences. At OLI, I am committed to connecting the community with valuable educational resources that inspire lifelong learning.

Blaise Hilary - Marketing Lead - https://x.com/Cryptobuul

With over five years of industry experience, I am a web3 professional currently serving as the Marketing Lead for OLI Nigeria. I have collaborated with reputable web3 brands and am dedicated to promoting OLI's mission of transforming education. My focus is on creating impactful marketing strategies that engage and empower our community.

Ese Williams - Ambassador - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ese-williams-758ba8198/

As the Head of Marketing at Remostart, I am a web3 marketing expert with a strong focus on branding and UI/UX design. My experience in these areas allows me to contribute effectively to OLI's mission of providing accessible education. I am committed to driving awareness and engagement within the community to unlock learning opportunities for all.

Eno Abasi - Ambassador - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martins-gift-enoabasi-3669141b3/

I am a content creator and event organiser with two years of experience in hosting web3 events. My active contributions to the growth of various web3 projects have honed my skills in connecting communities and fostering engagement. I am excited to represent OLI and support its mission of empowering learners through innovative educational experiences.

Victor Mkay - Ambassador - https://x.com/Mkay_vic97

As a content creator and digital marketer with over two years of active involvement in DeFi, I contribute to projects spanning gaming, AI, and real-world assets (RWA). I am passionate about harnessing the power of web3 to enhance educational opportunities. At OLI, I aim to inspire others to embrace the transformative potential of blockchain technology in their learning journeys.

GAMBIAN AMBASSADOR TEAM

Robyn Charles - Country Manager - https://x.com/RobynLCharles

Robyn Charles, youngest daughter of Ray Charles, is known for her work as an artist, singer, songwriter & producer with a passion for education, which is much inspired by her intrigue for web3. She is looking forward to offering unforeseen opportunities for the underprivileged global community via the OLi platform.

Ellen Sanyang - Ambassador - https://x.com/FinzElleno

I am a proud graduate of the University of The Gambia, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in International Development Studies in 2020. Currently, I am a dedicated teacher and a TV presenter at Qtv. I am passionate about empowering learners and believe that the OLI education platform can play a vital role in transforming lives through accessible education.

George V Mendy - Ambassador - https://x.com/iconiccgambia

Education is a powerful catalyst for change, and I am deeply passionate about the opportunities it brings. That’s why I am thrilled to be part of the OLI community. I believe our innovative approach is essential for fostering personal and professional development, and I am excited to contribute to this transformative journey with OLI.

Emmanuel Kofi Amponsah - Ambassador - https://x.com/Emmanuel_KDOT

As a university student with a passion for music production, I am currently focusing on piano and keyboarding. I aspire to create a course on the OLI platform that inspires fellow learners and shares my love for music. I believe OLI is the perfect space to nurture creativity and innovation in education.

Malick Roberts - Ambassador - https://x.com/MalickGambia

I am currently studying Architectural Draftsmanship with a focus on Construction Technology. I see OLI as an invaluable platform for cultivating innovative ideas that can enhance both my career and personal growth. I am eager to develop a course that shares my knowledge and experiences with the OLI community.

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

Project Planning

Define project scope, goals, and stakeholder engagement.

10,000

Month 1

Stakeholder Engagement

Conduct workshops and focus groups with industry experts and educators to identify competencies.

12,000

Months 2-3

Framework Development

Develop the Competency Framework based on stakeholder feedback and research.

24,000

Months 4-6

Recognition System Design

Design and implement a recognition system for digital badges and certificates.

20,000

Months 7-9

Testing and Feedback

Conduct testing of the framework and recognition system, collecting feedback for improvements.

8,000

Months 10-11

Marketing and Dissemination

Promote the project outcomes through webinars, reports, and partnerships.

10,000

Month 12

Total = 84,000 ADA

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

The proposed investment will yield significant returns by creating a workforce equipped with in-demand skills, thereby enhancing the employability of learners. This will not only benefit individual participants but will also strengthen the Cardano ecosystem by fostering innovation and development within blockchain and fintech sectors.

The costs associated with our project are structured to deliver outstanding value for the Cardano ecosystem. Every expense has been carefully considered to ensure that we maximise the benefits of our initiative while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Our budgeting process involved comprehensive research and analysis of industry standards. We based our costs on average wages and typical freelance rates in education, technology, and marketing sectors. This approach guarantees that our financial allocations are competitive and reflective of the quality and expertise required for the project.

Investing in the development of a Competency Framework that links OLI courses to critical skills in financial literacy, blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, and Web3 represents significant value for money for the Cardano ecosystem for several reasons:

• Alignment with Industry Needs: By collaborating with stakeholders to identify in-demand competencies, the project ensures that the framework is relevant and meets the evolving needs of the blockchain and fintech sectors. This alignment increases the likelihood of graduates being employed, thereby enhancing the overall value of the educational offerings within Cardano.

• Enhanced Employability: Implementing a recognition system with digital badges and certificates allows learners to showcase their skills on professional platforms like LinkedIn. This not only improves their employability but also promotes the Cardano ecosystem as a provider of valuable education, attracting more learners and partners.

• Collaborative Development: Involving learners in the framework's development ensures that it is user-centric, addressing real needs and experiences. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among participants, leading to higher satisfaction rates and better outcomes, which can enhance Cardano’s reputation as an inclusive and responsive educational platform.

• Building Community Capacity: Developing a skilled workforce contributes to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem, creating a network of professionals capable of driving innovative projects and initiatives. A robust community enhances collaboration and resource sharing, further increasing the ecosystem's resilience and capacity for growth.

The return on investment for this project is substantial. By improving learners’ job readiness and aligning educational outcomes with market demands, we contribute to building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce within the Cardano ecosystem. This drive for education and innovation is essential for fostering long-term sustainability and growth for the platform.