Equipping The Ghanaian Child To Be Globally Competitive

The founder of Makersplace Ghana, Mr Douglas Ayitey, has re-emphasized in an interview that the organization was set up to bridge the gap in Ghanaian society by developing the young minds of the Ghanaian child to compete globally.

In his own words, he said, “MakersPlace is a social enterprise operating locally but with an international mindset, which is reflective of the kind of curriculum, lesson plan, and target market we have.”

Talking about carrying out a sustainable project, he said that the outfit is strategically positioned by aligning itself with the Sustainable Development Goals. These goals include goal number 4, quality education, which helps achieve goal number 8—decent work and economic growth. He believes that it will impact the next generation by eradicating joblessness. The organization’s partnership with international stakeholders such as Microbit Education Foundation and TME Education Africa is a step towards realizing these goals. Most importantly, he re-echoed the fact that all activities are in line with benchmarking the organization to meet the highest international standards. In pursuance of a culture of excellence, Makersplace facilitators are Arduino certified, and the founder is himself an Arduino certified and a STEM certified Master trainer by STEM.ORGhttps://stem.org/, a US-based organization.

Competitive Organizational Framework

Discussing the underpinning philosophy on which the organization runs, the leader said they believe that the success of every learner is not achieved at the same pace. Secondly, children can be empowered to understand that their interests and ideas are not limited by race, colour, or age.

Financing And Some Challenges

With regard to financing, Mr. Ayitey pointed out that the entire organization is self-financed. He said they liaised with owners of spaces that fit their purpose and pitched their idea to them in hopes of securing it. So basically they pay for the rent and utilities, while some stakeholders also willingly support the maintenance of the space. They have three branches at East Legon, Dansoman, and Abelempke running concurrently. Recounting some challenges they faced, he said that sometimes when reaching out to key organizations and individuals by way of proposals and presentations, the feedback was not so encouraging. In motivating others to reach heights of excellence, he had this to say: “As far as you are concerned, I believe that if you are committed to a goal, take a bold step, just get started, and then in the process, you learn.”