Cardano Uganda Academy : Strengthening the Cardano Community in Uganda through education.

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

I am -> Kambale Mechack,

a skilled Project Leader specializing in Web 3 and Cardano Development. Proficient in Reactjs, Nodejs, Javascript, and Typescript, I contribute actively to the growth of the Cardano Community in Uganda. Fluent in both French and English, I leverage my bilingual proficiency to facilitate collaboration and communication within the global Blockchain community. With a deep passion for Blockchain technologies, I am dedicated to advancing innovation and fostering adoption worldwide. You can explore more about my professional journey on my LinkedIn profile: Kambale Mechack on LinkedIn.

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

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

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

Our solution is to organize educational and community activities, such as training sessions, workshops, and events, to educate and unite the Ugandan community around Cardano blockchain technology.

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

[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?

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

All resources produced as part of the project, including documentation, models and data, will be available in a dedicated open source repository, accessible to all.

We are firmly committed to the principles of open source and encourage collaboration and contribution from the community. By making our results available to the public, we hope to encourage transparency, innovation and participation in the continuous improvement of our project

[METADATA] SDG rating

>> SDG SELECTION:

• SDG goals:
• Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

• SDG subgoals:
• By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training

• Key Performance Indicator (KPI):
• Proportion of youth (aged 15–24 years) not in education, employment or training

#proposertoolsdg

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our solution proposes to launch the "Cardano Uganda Academy" educational program, which will offer a range of hands-on workshops, webinars and local community events. These sessions will cover topics ranging from creating Cardano wallets to basic transactions, staking and development projects on the Cardano blockchain. Working closely with local and international experts, we will ensure the quality and relevance of the content to the Ugandan context. In addition, we will create a YouTube channel to provide easy access to educational resources and encourage interaction with other members of the community. By offering a comprehensive and accessible educational program, our aim is to empower Ugandans to actively participate in the Cardano ecosystem, thereby strengthening the local community and contributing to Cardano's expansion in Africa.

Perception of the problem:

We see the problem we are solving as crucial to the adoption and integration of Cardano blockchain in Uganda. The lack of information about Cardano creates a gap in the understanding and use of this revolutionary technology. This not only limits development opportunities for Ugandans, but also their participation in the Cardano ecosystem on a global level. By providing accessible education and resources, we can overcome this challenge and enable more people to reap the benefits of the Cardano blockchain.

Proposed solution:

Our solution is to launch the "Cardano Uganda Academy" educational program in Uganda. This program will offer a series of hands-on workshops, webinars and community events to educate and empower Ugandans on the use of the Cardano blockchain. By collaborating with local and international experts, we will provide quality content tailored to the Ugandan context, strengthening the local community and contributing to Cardano's expansion in Africa.

• Launch of the "Cardano Uganda Academy" educational program in Uganda's capital, Kampala.
• Organizing hands-on workshops, webinars and local community events.
• Training on specific topics such as creating Cardano wallets, basic transactions, staking and development projects on the Cardano blockchain.
• Collaboration with local and international experts to ensure the relevance and quality of educational content.
• Creation of a dedicated YouTube channel for easy access to educational resources and community.
• Objective to empower Ugandans to actively participate in the Cardano ecosystem and contribute to its expansion in Africa.

Reasons for this approach:

The reasons for our approach are as follows:

• Accessibility: By offering a variety of learning formats such as hands-on workshops, webinars and community events, we make Cardano blockchain education accessible to a wide range of participants, whatever their skill level or availability.
• Local and international expertise: Collaboration with local and international experts ensures that educational content is tailored to the Ugandan context while benefiting from global best practices and industry knowledge.
• Interactivity: The creation of a dedicated YouTube channel provides not only easy access to educational resources, but also a platform for interaction and exchange within the community, fostering collaborative and continuous learning.
• Empowerment and community participation: By empowering Ugandans through Cardano blockchain education, we aim to stimulate their active participation in the Cardano ecosystem, thereby strengthening the local community and contributing to its expansion in Africa.

Target:

Our project will engage several stakeholders, including:

• The Ugandan community: Members of the Ugandan community interested in blockchain technology will have access to our educational program and participate in workshops, seminars and community events.
• Local and international experts: We will collaborate with both local and international blockchain experts to provide quality educational content tailored to the Ugandan context.
• Cardano stakeholders: We will work closely with the Cardano team and other project stakeholders to support and promote our educational initiative within the Cardano community.
• Potential partners and sponsors: We will seek partnerships with local organizations, businesses and other entities interested in developing blockchain education in Uganda.

By engaging these stakeholders, our project aims to create a dynamic and inclusive educational ecosystem that fosters the adoption and use of Cardano in Uganda.

Impact demonstration:

To demonstrate and prove our impact, we'll be using a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics, as well as feedback from participants. Here are some of the methods we'll be using:

• Participant evaluations: We will collect feedback from participants after each training session, workshop or event to assess their level of satisfaction, their understanding of the concepts covered and their perception of the added value of our program.
• Progress monitoring: We will track participants' progress over time using tools such as post-training questionnaires, and ongoing assessments to evaluate the impact of our program on their understanding and skills in Cardano blockchain.
• Participation in the Cardano ecosystem: We will monitor participants' participation in the Cardano ecosystem after completing our program, measuring indicators such as the number of new Cardano users, and their involvement in Cardano blockchain development projects.
• Case studies and testimonials: We will collect case studies and testimonials from participants who have benefited from our program, highlighting their successes, achievements and the tangible benefits they have derived from their participation.

Using these methods, we will be able to convincingly demonstrate the impact of our program on the adoption and use of Cardano in Uganda, and on the empowerment and strengthening of the local community.

Uniqueness of our project:

What makes our solution unique is its holistic approach to Cardano blockchain education in Uganda. Here are a few things that set it apart:

• Accessibility and diversity of learning formats: Our program offers a diverse range of learning formats, including hands-on workshops, webinars and local community events, to make Cardano blockchain education accessible to a wide range of participants, regardless of skill level or availability.
• Collaboration with local and international experts: We work closely with both local and international blockchain experts to provide quality educational content tailored to the Ugandan context, ensuring the relevance and credibility of our program.
• Community interaction and engagement: We encourage community interaction and engagement through our dedicated YouTube channel, providing a place to ask questions, share knowledge and connect with other members of the Cardano community.
• Progress tracking and ongoing evaluation: We track participants' progress over time and evaluate the impact of our program through tools such as pre- and post-training questionnaires, knowledge tests and ongoing evaluations, ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of our program.

By combining these elements, our solution offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to Cardano blockchain education in Uganda, fostering the adoption and use of Cardano within the local community while strengthening their engagement and participation in the global Cardano ecosystem.

Important for Cardano:

Our solution is important to Cardano, as it contributes to several key aspects of its development and adoption:

• Ecosystem expansion: By actively educating and engaging the Ugandan community, our solution helps expand the Cardano ecosystem into a new geographic region, opening up new opportunities for blockchain growth and adoption.
• Community building: By empowering members of the Ugandan community through Cardano blockchain education, our solution strengthens the local community, fosters collaboration and creates an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
• Diversification and inclusion: By providing equal access to education on the Cardano blockchain, our solution promotes diversification and inclusion within the ecosystem, enabling a greater variety of voices and perspectives to contribute to Cardano's development.
• Sustainability: By investing in education and capacity building, our solution lays the foundation for the long-term, sustainable adoption of Cardano in Uganda, contributing to its long-term stability and viability as a blockchain platform.

Our solution is important for Cardano, as it contributes to its expansion, strengthens its community, promotes diversification and inclusion, and lays the foundation for long-term, sustainable adoption of the Cardano blockchain in Uganda and beyond.

Why strengthen Cardano's integration in Uganda?

Uganda was chosen for several reasons:

• Need for technology education: Uganda is facing a growing need for technology education, particularly in the field of blockchain. By offering Cardano blockchain education, we are meeting this need and helping to bridge the digital divide in the country.
• Growth potential: Uganda is an emerging market with strong growth potential for blockchain. By educating and engaging the Ugandan population, we are helping to drive the adoption and use of Cardano in the country, opening up new growth opportunities for blockchain.
• Community engagement: Uganda has a vibrant and passionate community ready to embrace new technologies. By focusing on community engagement in Uganda, we can create a significant and lasting impact in the country.
• Strategic position in Africa: As a country located in the heart of East Africa, Uganda can serve as a springboard for Cardano's expansion throughout the region. By establishing a strong presence in Uganda, we can extend Cardano's influence and adoption throughout Africa.

Uganda has a strong case for technology education, growth potential, community involvement and strategic position in Africa.

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

Positive impact :

Our project will have a positive impact on the Cardano community as a whole in several ways:

• Expansion of the Cardano ecosystem: By educating and engaging the Ugandan community, we contribute to the expansion of the Cardano ecosystem into a new geographic region. This increases the diversity and inclusiveness of the Cardano community, fostering innovation and growth.
• Community empowerment: Empowering individuals in Uganda to actively participate in the Cardano ecosystem strengthens the global Cardano community. Their contributions, ideas and involvement enrich the ecosystem and advance its development.
• Knowledge sharing and collaboration: Our educational initiatives facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration between the Ugandan and global Cardano communities. This exchange of ideas and expertise benefits both parties and accelerates the progress of Cardano as a whole.
• Market adoption and diversification of use cases: By promoting the adoption and use of Cardano in Uganda, our project contributes to the utility and real adoption of the Cardano blockchain. This strengthens Cardano's position as a leading blockchain platform with practical applications and use cases in different regions and industries.
• Global visibility and reputation: the successful implementation of educational initiatives in Uganda strengthens Cardano's global visibility and reputation. This highlights Cardano's commitment to education, community empowerment and sustainable development, attracting more users, developers and investors to the ecosystem.

The positive impact of our project on the Cardano community as a whole includes expanding the ecosystem, empowering individuals, promoting collaboration, driving adoption and improving Cardano's global visibility and reputation.

Value to the Cardano Community:

The success of our project will have a significant impact on the Cardano community. By establishing an educational presence in Uganda, we will extend the Cardano ecosystem into a new region, creating new opportunities for growth and adoption. In addition, by actively educating and engaging community members in Uganda, we will strengthen cohesion and solidarity within the Cardano community. The success of our project will also demonstrate the diversity of Cardano blockchain use cases, encouraging the development of new blockchain-based projects and applications. Finally, by stimulating the adoption of Cardano technology and increasing its international visibility through our project, we will strengthen Cardano's market position and attract new investors and potential users.

Impact measurement:

To measure the impact of our project, we will use a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods:

• Participant evaluations: We will collect feedback from participants after each training session or community event to assess their satisfaction, their understanding of the concepts covered and their perception of the added value of our program.
• Case studies and testimonials: We will collect case studies and testimonials from participants who have benefited from our program, highlighting their successes, achievements and the tangible benefits they derived from their participation.

Using these methods, we will be able to convincingly demonstrate the impact of our program on the adoption and use of Cardano in Uganda, and on the empowerment and strengthening of the local community.

To share our results, we will use several communication channels:

• We will publish regular reports on our progress and achievements via blogs, newsletters and social media.
• We will organize experience-sharing sessions and roundtables with the Cardano community to discuss the impact of our project.
• We will collaborate with partners and local organizations in Africa to share our results and strengthen our impact on a regional scale.
• We will participate in blockchain-related events and conferences to present our results and exchange with other industry players.

[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?

These experiences demonstrate our commitment and expertise in the field of blockchain and education in East Africa, which positions us ideally to successfully deliver the "Cardano Uganda Academy" project. Here's how each of these experiences contributes to our ability to manage this project with confidence and responsibility:

• Reviewer at Catalyst Fund11: As a L0 and L2 reviewer, I have gained an in-depth understanding of the collaborative funding process and project evaluation criteria. This will enable me to ensure that our project is well aligned with the Catalyst Fund's objectives and expectations, thus ensuring its success.
• Organizing web3 training sessions in Uganda in 2023: Thanks to my previous experience in organizing web3 training sessions in Uganda, I have developed skills in planning, logistics and delivery of educational content. These skills will be invaluable in the design and implementation of the Cardano Uganda Academy, ensuring high quality and relevant training programs.
• Web3 developer at ToGree in Nairobi: My experience as a web3 developer at ToGree gives me an in-depth understanding of blockchain technologies and the challenges facing developers in the region. This will enable me to provide practical and relevant educational content for Cardano Uganda Academy participants, preparing them to effectively use Cardano blockchain in their projects.
• Involvement in web3 development and initiation activities in East Africa: My involvement in web3 development and initiation activities in East Africa is a testament to my commitment to the development of the blockchain ecosystem in the region. This gives me a unique perspective on the needs and challenges of local communities, which will guide our efforts to make the Cardano Uganda Academy as impactful and accessible as possible.

By combining these varied experiences, we are well equipped to manage the "Cardano Uganda Academy" project successfully, ensuring transparency, accountability and efficiency throughout.

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

Milestone 1: Preparation and Planning of the Training Program

Objective : The aim of Milestone 1 is to carefully prepare and plan the training program for the Cardano Uganda Academy.

A: Milestone outputs:

Instructional content planning and design:

• Document detailing the educational objectives of the program.
• Instructional materials including presentations, course materials and hands-on activities.

Schedule of training sessions :

• Detailed schedule showing dates, times and locations of training sessions.

Awareness campaign :

• Communication materials for the awareness campaign, including announcements and publications on social networks.

Trained and operational administration team:

• List of administration team members with defined roles and responsibilities.

B: Acceptance criteria :

Planning and design of educational content:

• The document detailing the educational objectives is complete and clear, describing the specific skills and knowledge to be acquired.
• Instructional materials are professionally designed, well structured and tailored to the target audience, including engaging visual presentations, comprehensive course materials and relevant hands-on activities.

Schedule of training sessions :

• The schedule of training sessions is precise, clearly indicating the dates, times and locations of each session.
• Each subject scheduled for each session is clearly identified in the calendar, enabling participants to know the content of each session in advance.

Awareness campaign :

• Communication materials for the awareness campaign are professionally produced, with attractive advertisements and clear, convincing messages.
• Awareness-raising publications on social networks have been made.

Trained and operational administration team:

• The administration team is complete, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities for each member.

C: Evidence of milestone completion

Educational Content Planning and Design:

• PDF document detailing the program's educational objectives, with clear, concise descriptions of the targeted skills.
• PDF document of complete course materials, including professional PowerPoint presentations, detailed written course materials and examples of practical activities.

Schedule of training sessions :

• PDF file of the detailed Training Session Calendar, with dates, times and locations planned for each session.
• PDF of clear list of topics to be covered in each session, demonstrating thorough planning and understanding of participants' needs.

Awareness campaign :

• Link from announcements and publications created for the awareness campaign to social media posts.

Trained and operational administration team:

• PDF of the complete list of administration team members, with descriptions of roles and responsibilities for each member.

Milestone 2: Launch of Cardano Blockchain Academy and Start of Training

Objective : The aim of Milestone 2 is to launch the Cardano Uganda Academy and start training participants according to plan.

A: Milestone outputs:

Program launch with detailed course outline:

• Official start of the Cardano Uganda Academy training program, with all training sessions planned in accordance with the established schedule.
• Distribution of detailed course outline to all participants, providing full information on training content, objectives and schedule.

Start of training :

• Actual start of training sessions according to schedule, with all scheduled trainers and participants present.

Organization of training sessions at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center:

• Carry out training sessions at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center, providing an environment conducive to learning and interaction.
• Provision of the necessary equipment and resources to ensure the smooth running of training sessions, including Internet access and visual aids.

B: Acceptance criteria:

Program launch with detailed course outline:

• The Cardano Uganda Academy training program is officially launched on schedule.
• The detailed course outline is distributed to all participants prior to the start of training.

Start of training :

• Training sessions begin according to schedule, with trainers and participants present.
• Participants are actively involved in the first training sessions, demonstrating their interest and participation.

Organization of training sessions at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center:

• Training sessions are held at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center, providing a favorable learning environment.
• All the necessary equipment and resources are in place to ensure that the sessions run smoothly, including Internet access and visual aids.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

Program launch with detailed course outline:

• Link to official program launch form, indicating start date and program details.

Start of training :

• Photos or videos of the first training sessions in progress, showing the presence of trainers and participants and the interaction between them.
• Links to the form for feedback from participants on their experience of the first training sessions.

Organization of training sessions at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center:

• Photos of Confirmation of rental reservation for use of premises at Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center during training sessions.
• Photos of the premises set up for training, showing the installation of the necessary equipment and the availability of resources.

Final Milestone: Finalization of the Training Program and Certification of Participants

Objective : The aim of this Final Milestone is to finalize the Cardano Uganda Academy training program and to deliver certifications to participants who have successfully completed the course.

A: Milestone outputs:

Participant evaluation :

• Comprehensive assessment tests to measure participants' understanding and skills acquired throughout the training program.

Participant portfolios with awards :

• Portfolios and awards obtained by each participant throughout the training program.

Presentation of certificates to participants:

• Printed or digital certificates issued to each participant who has successfully completed the training program.

B: Acceptance criteria:

Participant assessment :

• Tests are administered in a fair and transparent manner, guaranteeing the integrity of the results.

Participant Portfolio and awards:

• Documents or digital files listing participants' Portfolio and rewards are complete and accurate.

Presentation of certificates to participants :

• All participants who successfully complete the training program receive their certificates on time.
• Certificates are issued correctly, in accordance with established standards and success criteria.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

Participant evaluation :

• Links to assessment tests completed by participants, with their answers and results.
• PDF of Test Results Analysis Report, showing participants' overall performance and highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Participant portfolio with awards:

• Documents or Links listing participants' Portfolios and awards, 
• Spreadsheet of participant testimonials attesting to the accuracy and appropriateness of the awards given.

Presentation of certificates to participants:

• Scanned copies of certificates issued to each participant, with names, dates and appropriate signatures.
• Proof of delivery of certificates to participants, such as photos or videos of the certificate ceremony or written confirmation of receipt by participants.

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

Actual Team

I am -> Kambale Mechack,

a skilled Project Leader specializing in Web 3 and Cardano Development. Proficient in Reactjs, Nodejs, Javascript, and Typescript, I contribute actively to the growth of the Cardano Community in Uganda. Fluent in both French and English, I leverage my bilingual proficiency to facilitate collaboration and communication within the global Blockchain community. With a deep passion for Blockchain technologies, I am dedicated to advancing innovation and fostering adoption worldwide. You can explore more about my professional journey on my LinkedIn profile: Kambale Mechack on LinkedIn.

-> Elias Semajeri Ladis

Ph.D in Management Information Systems

Teaches computer science courses at UAGO

Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science at UAGO

Member of PhD defense committee at KIU Kampala

Expert in Network Programming.

-> Justin (Stark) Bihango

IT Developper ( Software engineering 

Team Manager at TOOGREE

Fullstack Developer (Web & Mobile)

Member of the Developer Team at the Ministry of ESU

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

Total project cost : ADA 35,000

Milestone 1: Preparation and Planning of the Training Program : 10,000 ADA

Preparation of training materials : 5,000 ADA

• Design and development of educational content (This will involve hiring instructional designers or content creators to develop high-quality educational materials tailored to the needs of the target audience) : 2,500 ADA
• Printing and production costs (Once the content has been finalized, there will be expenses for some printing media, training manuals and other educational materials) : 2,500 ADA

Awareness campaign : 5,000 ADA

• Advertising costs(Budget to run ads on social media platforms, search engines or traditional media channels to promote the launch of Cardano Uganda Academy) : 2,500 ADA
• Graphic design and content creation(Costs for designing promotional materials such as banners, flyers, posters and digital graphics) : 2,500 ADA

Milestone 2: Launch of Cardano Blockchain Academy and Start of Training : 15,000 ADA

Training program launch with detailed course outline: 8,000 ADA

• Communication and marketing costs (To officially announce the launch of the training program) : 2,500 ADA

• Material editing and printing (Brochures, posters and other physical promotional material are required for the launch) :  2,500 ADA

• Event launch costs (Launch of the event marking the start of the training program, hence the costs associated with venue rental, food and beverages, audiovisual equipment and any other necessary items) : 3,000 ADA

Start of training : 3,000 ADA

• Remuneration of trainers (Trainers will be remunerated for their services, corresponding fees for training sessions) : 1,500 ADA
• Office supplies and training materials (Additional training materials and/or office supplies required for training sessions) : 1,500 ADA

Organization of training sessions at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center: 4,000 ADA

• Rental costs (Cost of renting space at the Coworking space Kampala Innovation Center to hold training sessions): 3,500 ADA
• Additional equipment costs : 500 ADA

Final Milestone: Finalization of the Training Program and Certification of Participants : 10,000 ADA

Participant assessment test : 2,000 ADA

• Test development and administration (Customized tests must be developed and professionals are needed to administer and evaluate the tests) : 2,000 ADA

Creation of participant portfolios with awards received: 3,000 ADA

• Cost of rewards (Certificates, digital badges and other forms of recognition are given to participants) : 3,000 ADA

Presentation of certificates to participants at the end of the course: 5,000 ADA

• Design and printing of certificates (Cost of graphic design and printing of certificates for each participant) : 3,000 ADA
• Certificate award ceremony : 2,000 ADA

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

The cost of the project represents value for the Cardano ecosystem in several ways:

• Potential impact: The costs are justified by the scale of the impact the project can have on the adoption of Cardano in Uganda and Africa. By investing in education and awareness, the project can help develop a robust and knowledgeable community, which in the long term can lead to wider adoption of the Cardano blockchain in the region.
• Value for money: Costs are commensurate with the potential benefits of the project. Activities such as training, participant assessment and certification are essential to ensure the effectiveness and credibility of the program. These costs represent an investment in the quality of the education and in the commitment of the participants, which can provide tangible results in the long term.
• Economic context: Costs are aligned with the economic context of Uganda and the region. While some costs may seem high by Western standards, they are in fact reasonable given the cost of living and average salaries in Uganda. In addition, the project can benefit from local partnerships and resources available at affordable rates.
• Cost transparency and justification: Project costs are transparent and justified with specific details of planned activities. For example, the costs of designing and printing certificates are estimated on the basis of local market rates for such services. In addition, costs are regularly evaluated and adjusted to ensure efficient use of funds while maintaining program quality.

While the project may require significant up-front investment, these costs are commensurate with the potential benefits it can bring to the Cardano ecosystem in terms of adoption, community engagement and long-term growth.