Lesotho's Girls Coding Academy: A Model of Self-reliance in Tech Education

The Lesotho Girls Coding Academy’s Hackathon, as reported in the State of Open Source in the Global South, exemplifies how private initiative and local solutions can address the skills gap in the tech industry without requiring heavy-handed government intervention. By fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance, this initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of grassroots approaches in empowering individuals and promoting gender equality in the workforce. This story is a testament to the power of market-driven solutions to social issues, showcasing that with the right opportunities, individuals can overcome barriers and succeed on their own merits. The Academy not only equips young women with valuable coding skills but also instills in them the confidence to thrive in competitive environments, proving that empowering education is key to sustainable development.