News & Updates

WordPress in Education Showcase 2024 Group Photo

WordPress in Education Showcase 2024: NextGen Recap

Posted on by Ssebuwufu Moses

The ‘WordPress in Education Showcase,’ held at Masaka Social Center on April 6, 2024, was a landmark event, marking the first NextGen WordPress event in Uganda and Africa. This pioneering event celebrated the innovative integration of WordPress into Uganda’s educational frameworks, attracting close to 100 participants, including students, educators, and technology enthusiasts from various backgrounds

The day was structured around interactive sessions such as a beginner’s workshop on WordPress and a panel discussion featuring seasoned educators discussing the integration of technology in teaching-learning environments. These sessions provided insights into effective teaching methodologies and digital tool utilization, enriching the attendees’ educational strategies.

The event began with a session where participants shared their WordPress experiences. This not only fostered a sense of community but also highlighted the platform’s accessibility, with over 60% of attendees interacting with WordPress for the first time. Seasoned users shared insights, offering inspiration and practical advice to newcomers.

Rogers Mukalele conducted an interactive educational quiz on the basics of web design and the functionality of the World Wide Web. This quiz served as a fun icebreaker and an effective learning tool, reinforcing key concepts and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Stephen Dumba then led a hands-on workshop, guiding beginners through the process of building a four-page website using WordPress. He demonstrated practical skills such as theme and plugin installation, page and post creation, and menu setup. The workshop emphasized using the Gutenberg editor for content editing and showcased how to incorporate additional features like contact forms.

I really enjoyed the ‘WordPress in Education Showcase.’ It showed me how useful WordPress can be. As I start my Animal Husbandry course, I’m excited to use WordPress to share what I learn and also teach it to others. This way, I can spread knowledge far and wide.

Anitah Nantale Ndawula
From left to right are Anitah Nantale Ndawula, Atuhairwe Natasha and Hope Nabateregga

In parallel, Rogers offered a video demonstration tackling a sample ICT exam question by the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) on website design. He meticulously outlined the steps involved in installing XAMPP for local hosting, deploying WordPress, and finalizing a website migration to online servers. This session was invaluable for visual learners and underscored the practical applications of the skills being taught.

The event also featured an exhibition area where sponsors, including Automattic (WordPress.com), displayed their products and services. These sponsor tables provided participants with networking opportunities and the chance to learn about new tools and resources available in the WordPress ecosystem.

A panel discussion followed, featuring Ugandan ICT teachers exploring the evolution of web authoring tools and their implications for education. The discussion highlighted the shift from traditional software like Expression Web to more versatile platforms like WordPress, which offers extensive customization options and a supportive community.

Project showcases were a highlight, featuring impactful contributions from St. Edwards Secondary School Bukuumi and Ezone School of Computing. The projects tackled various community and educational challenges:

  1. Environmental Conservation Awareness by Group 1 from St. Edwards Secondary School Bukuumi: This project focused on raising environmental conservation awareness both within and outside the school community. The developed website boasts a clean design and user-friendly interface, utilizing WordPress plugins like Elementor for page building, WP Download Manager for downloadable content, and WooCommerce for fundraising. It also integrates social media plugins for better community engagement and includes a contact form for feedback and newsletter sign-ups.
  2. Learn Hub by Group 2 from Ezone School of Computing, presented by Atuhairwe Natasha and her team, is an e-learning platform designed to enrich the educational experience with integrated videos and direct communication channels with teachers. The LearnPress plugin manages and delivers content-rich courses, highlighting WordPress’s flexibility in creating dynamic educational environments.
  3. Find School by Group 3 from Ezone School of Computing serves as a comprehensive directory to assist parents and prospective students in finding schools that meet their specific needs. It utilizes custom post types and the Advanced Custom Fields plugin to accurately manage and present data submitted by school owners.

The panel of advisors evaluated the projects based on several criteria including innovation, technical execution, usability, accessibility, and impact. Feedback focused on the effective use of WordPress features, the design and security of the sites, and the clarity of the presentations. Suggestions were made for each group on how to improve their projects further, such as enhancing mobile responsiveness, considering offline capabilities for areas with limited internet access, and expanding their project models for sustainability.

The showcase concluded with an award ceremony where points were tallied and outstanding projects announced. Group 3 emerged as the overall winner with 87 points, closely followed by Group 1 and Group 2. All participating groups received certificates, web hosting space from Kasirye Labs and Cursor Web Host, and licenses for Elementor from Sharebility Web Services to encourage continued project development. Group 1 from St. Edward’s Secondary School Bukuumi was selected for a three-month mentorship program led by Ssebuwufu Moses to enhance their project to meet standards. The program began on April 18, 2024, via Google Meet.

The upcoming Uganda Website Projects Competition 2024, a dynamic Next Gen event where students will showcase their innovative WordPress–powered projects under two categories: Rising Stars category (for Primary and Secondary Schools) and Explorers category (for Post-Secondary vocational schools, technical training institutes, universities, and colleges) to be held on July 5th, 2024 at the National ICT Innovation Hub, Nakawa, was announced and encouraged diverse communities to participate. The importance of using WordPress to not only solve real-world problems but also to enhance learning and community engagement was highly emphasized.

One of our promotional methods used for the WordPress in Education Showcase was through Radio adverts, social media posts, and ICT Teachers Association platforms. The Radio adverts approach was selected to align with the ethos of NextGen, which promotes innovative event formats and outreach efforts among the local WordPress community.

The event wrapped up with group photos, interviews, and informal networking among participants, advisors, and organizers. This provided a valuable opportunity for further discussion and collaboration. Feedback collected through post-event surveys indicated a highly successful event, though there was a noted desire for more beginner-level content. In response, plans are in place to include more foundational workshops in future events to better accommodate newcomers to WordPress.

The WordPress in Education Showcase was a notable success but faced several logistical challenges. Initially, five schools were confirmed to showcase with six groups expected; however, only two schools and three groups ultimately participated. A significant issue was the overbooking of tickets; spots reserved for no-shows prevented other interested individuals from participating, as the event was capped at 100 attendees from the outset. Notably, two sister schools attempted to register 240 students after tickets were sold out, but they would have faced the same issue even if they had shown interest earlier due to the fixed attendee limit.

These challenges underscored a broader demand for WordPress workshops, especially in secondary schools. We are exploring solutions utilizing school computer labs for hands-on workshops, to better accommodate future events such as meetups and enrich the educational experience. Additionally, the idea of hosting decentralized events at schools is gaining traction as a means to manage attendance and logistical concerns more effectively

Moving forward, despite these challenges, we’re committed to providing enriching experiences for our community. We invite you to join us for WordCamp 2024 in Uganda, where we’ll continue to explore the boundless potential of WordPress. Scheduled for September 5th and 6th 2024 at The Innovation Village in Jinja, it promises to be an inspiring event. Attendee and sponsorship tickets are available now. For further details and registration, please visit https://jinja.wordcamp.org/2024/.

Thank you to our sponsors and everyone who played a part in making the WordPress in Education Showcase a resounding success. Your contributions are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to continuing our journey together towards a more vibrant and inclusive WordPress ecosystem.

Masaka Travel Guide

Travel Guide

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

WordPress in Education Showcase 2024 is scheduled for Sat, April 6th, 2024, at Masaka Social Centre. The venue is situated in the Heart of Masaka City, Bwala Hill Road, Adjacent to Hill Road Public School, a few meters after Masaka Secondary School.

How to Reach Masaka?

If you plan to travel to Masaka by air, the nearest major airport is Entebbe International Airport (EBB), located approximately 130 kilometers from Masaka. Several transportation options are available from Entebbe to Masaka, including buses, taxis, and private cars. The journey from Kampala to Masaka takes approximately 3 hours. If you don’t have access to a private car, we recommend taking a Bus from Bakuli Bus Terminal or a taxi from either Kampala New Tax Park or Busega. You can seek assistance from locals to guide you to the Bus Terminal and taxis bound for Masaka. The locals are friendly and willing to help, but please be mindful of pickpockets. Buses and Taxis typically charge no more than UGX 20,000, although you may negotiate for a fare of UGX 15,000. If you take a bus, instruct a driver or conductor to drop you off at Total Nyendo Highway because Buses take long routes to the western region and they don’t pass in the heart of Masaka, instead, they take the Kyakumpi-Mbarara road. So, your Bus stop will be here at Total Nyendo Highway. At this very location, Taxis taking you to Masaka are available and they charge UGX 1000 only, instruct the driver to drop you off at the City View Complex building, from City View take a boda boda to Masaka Social Centre directly, and boda boda charge is only UGX 1,000. The taxi drivers are friendly; you can also ask them to get you a boda boda guy to take you to Masaka Social Centre at the City View boda boda stage.

If you take a Taxi, Instruct the driver or conductor to drop you off at Buddu Shell next to Masaka Recreation Ground and opposite Masaka Central Police Station. If departing from Busega, the fare should be no more than UGX 15,000. Here as well, inform the driver that you need to be dropped at Buddu Shell. If you are unfamiliar with Masaka, do not hesitate to remind the driver or conductor of your destination. If you have a private car, please consider stopping at the Equator in Kayabwe to take some photographs. Regrettably, buses and taxis rarely stop to allow passengers to capture this moment. Private car users can consult Google Maps for route information.

Upon arriving at Buddu Shell by taxi, you will find a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) stage. Inform the boda boda rider(s) that you are headed to Masaka Social Centre, located adjacent to Hill Road Primary School or after Masaka Secondary School. The boda boda fare is a mere UGX 1,000, and the ride takes less than 5 minutes. For those with private cars, departing from Buddu Shell, turn left onto Edward Avenue Street leading to Masaka Central Market and Masaka Secondary School. You will find a roundabout 100 meters after the Masaka Central Market, drive that lane to Murram Road. From the roundabout, drive approximately 700 meters, you will encounter a signpost to Masaka Social Centre on your right-hand side.

If you are traveling from Mbarara or other western parts of Uganda, or Kigali, Rwanda, instruct the bus driver to drop you off at Gaz Petrol Station in Kijjabwemi, a designated Bus stop. From there, take a boda boda ride to Masaka Social Centre. Boda boda riders typically charge UGX 2,000. If you are using a taxi from Western Uganda, request to be dropped off at the Buddu Shell. A boda boda stage is available, and the ride to the venue costs only UGX 1,000, lasting less than 5 minutes. Private car users can ask for assistance for directions to the event venue.

For those traveling from Mutukula on the Kyotera Road, reach Buddu Shell and take a boda boda or ask for assistance for directions to the event venue. Masaka people are friendly.

For travelers from Ssembabule, Bukomansimbi, and Kalungu Road using private cars, upon reaching the Kyakumpi-Mbarara Road junction (Nyendo-Kampala-Mbarara-Kalungu-Bukomansimbi), take the Nyendo Road and then the Masaka Road. Proceed onto the Masaka Central Market and Masaka Secondary School Road, and you will encounter the signpost for Masaka Social Centre. If you take a taxi, ask the driver to drop you off at Nsenene (Grasshoppers) boda boda Stage in Nyendo and take a taxi to Masaka City View building, the taxi charges only UGX 1,000, and after get a boda boda ride to Masaka Social Centre at UGX 1,000. If you like a boda boda ride from the Nsenene stage in Nyendo, ask a rider to take you directly to the event venue; they normally charge UGX 2,000.

Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you to WordPress in Education Showcase 2024.

Call for Media Partners

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

Are you an enthusiastic media professional with a passion for education, web design, and development? Are you intrigued by technology and the future of learning? We invite you to be part of the WordPress in Education Technology Showcase 2024, a platform that highlights the revolutionary role of WordPress in the educational sphere.

We’re keen to collaborate with a variety of media outlets including educational magazines, newspapers, TV and radio networks, educational podcasters, bloggers, influencers, and freelance journalists specializing in education. By joining our vibrant community, you’ll not only gain exclusive access to our event but also connect with a diverse group of educators, WordPress experts, and innovative students. This is a unique opportunity to enhance your brand’s presence among a specific audience of educators, technology enthusiasts, and students.

Benefits of Becoming a Media Partner:

  1. Exclusive Insights: Get a behind-the-scenes look at our event, offering you special stories and perspectives for your audience.
  2. Network Expansion: Meet and collaborate with a wide range of educators, WordPress professionals, and pioneering students, broadening your professional contacts and fostering meaningful collaborations.
  3. Brand Promotion: Increase your visibility and reach by promoting your brand to a niche audience comprising educators, tech experts, and students.
  4. Contribute to Education: By supporting the integration of WordPress in classrooms, you’ll make a significant impact on the future of learning.

Eligibility Criteria:

  1. Media outlets with a focus on education, technology, or digital innovations.
  2. A track record of producing high-quality, engaging content.
  3. A commitment to promoting the integration of technology in education.

Join us in redefining the future of education technology. Become a media partner for the WordPress in Education Showcase 2024 and let’s together magnify the influence of WordPress in the educational realm, empowering learners across the globe.

Submission Deadline Reached

Call for Volunteers

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

We are seeking volunteers to support the upcoming WordPress in Education Technology Showcase, a one-day event that highlights the innovative use of WordPress in education. As a volunteer, you will play a crucial role in contributing to the success of this event and making a positive impact on the future of education technology.

Volunteer Opportunities:

  1. Event Setup and Logistics: Assist with setting up the event venue, ensuring equipment is in working order, and providing logistical support throughout the day.
  2. Registration and Information Desk: Welcome attendees, provide event information and directions, and handle registration and check-in processes.
  3. Session Moderators and Timekeepers: Facilitate presentations and ensure sessions adhere to the schedule. Keep track of time and provide cues to presenters.
  4. Technology Support: Assist with technical setup and troubleshooting of presentation equipment and ensure smooth operation of technology throughout the event.
  5. Networking and Socializing: Facilitate networking opportunities among attendees, encourage interactions, and foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Why Volunteer?

  1. Make a Difference in Education: Contribute to the advancement of education technology and empower student innovators to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills.
  2. Gain Valuable Experience: Expand your knowledge of WordPress and education technology, enhance your communication and interpersonal skills, and gain valuable experience in event management and volunteer coordination.
  3. Network with Educators and WordPress Experts: Connect with passionate educators, WordPress enthusiasts, and industry professionals, expanding your professional network and learning from others.
  4. Be Part of an Exciting Event: Contribute to a transformative event that celebrates innovation in education technology and inspires the future of learning.

Eligibility:

  1. Passion for education and technology
  2. Interest in WordPress and its applications in education
  3. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  4. Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  5. Commitment to providing a positive and supportive volunteer experience

Deadline:

The deadline to apply is February 15, 2024

Submission Deadline Reached

Call for Advisors

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

Are you a passionate WordPress enthusiast eager to support student innovators? Join us as an advisor for the WordPress in Education Technology Showcase.

The WordPress in Education Technology Showcase is an exciting one-day event that brings together students, teachers, and WordPress enthusiasts to celebrate the innovative use of WordPress in education. As an advisor, you will play a crucial role in providing valuable feedback and mentorship to these aspiring developers.

Responsibilities

  1. Review and evaluate student-developed WordPress websites
  2. Provide constructive feedback to students, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement
  3. Participate in the selection process for the three-month mentorship program
  4. Share your WordPress knowledge and insights with students and other participants during networking sessions

Requirements

  1. Demonstrated proficiency in WordPress development
  2. Passion for education and technology
  3. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  4. Commitment to encouraging innovation and creativity in young minds

Benefits

  1. Make a direct impact on the future of education technology
  2. Contribute to the growth and development of student innovators
  3. Network with educators, students, and fellow WordPress enthusiasts
  4. Gain recognition for your expertise and contributions

Deadline:

The deadline to apply is March 21, 2024

Join us in shaping the future of education technology!

Apply now and become a part of this transformative event. Your knowledge and guidance will make a significant difference in the journeys of student innovators.

Submission Deadline Reached

Call for Applications

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

The WordPress in Education Technology Showcase is a fantastic event where secondary students will display their innovative WordPress websites, e-learning platforms, and more. These projects should be specially designed to meet various educational needs or social challenges. This one-day event is a gathering of more than 100 secondary school students, teachers, and WordPress enthusiasts, creating a vibrant and diverse community.

Showcase Highlights:

  1. Empowerment: This is your chance to present your unique WordPress projects to an audience that includes students, educators, and WordPress enthusiasts. It’s an opportunity to share your ideas and get inspired.
  2. Guided Project-Based Learning: Show off your creativity, problem-solving abilities, and WordPress expertise. This is a chance to demonstrate how project-based learning has enhanced your skills.
  3. Expert Feedback and Recognition: You’ll receive constructive feedback from a panel of advisors. Exceptional projects will be acknowledged and celebrated, giving recognition to your hard work.

How to Apply:

School representatives are invited to submit applications on behalf of their students. The application should detail the WordPress projects developed by the students. Make sure to include the project’s purpose, its features, and how it tackles educational or social challenges.

Showcase Details

Event Date: April 6, 2024

Venue: Masaka Social Centre – Bwala Hill, Masaka, Uganda

Time: 09 am – 4:00 pm

Deadline:

The deadline to apply is March 15, 2024

Submission Deadline Reached

Call for Audio Visual Production

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

Join our team as a volunteer audio-visual producer and help showcase the transformative power of WordPress in education. Your role will be pivotal in creating a series of short, compelling videos that highlight the benefits of WordPress as a tool for teaching and learning. These videos, no longer than 3 minutes each, will inspire educators worldwide to explore and embrace this versatile platform.

Your Role as a Volunteer

In this volunteer position, your creativity and skills in audio-visual production will be crucial. You will help bring the “WordPress in Education Showcase” to life, using your expertise to craft engaging videos that demonstrate the significant impact of WordPress on education.

What We’re Looking For

We’re in search of high-quality, informative, and visually appealing videos that focus on:

  1. The transformative effect of WordPress on teaching and learning.
  2. Real-world instances where WordPress has revolutionized education.
  3. Practical advice and resources for educators considering WordPress.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to all enthusiasts of audio-visual production, with no restrictions based on experience.

Deadline for Applications

Please submit your application by March 15, 2024.

Submission Deadline Reached

Call for Sponsors

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

Submission Deadline Reached

Get ready for a groundbreaking event in Uganda’s digital landscape – the first-ever WordPress in Education Showcase! This event is not only the first of its kind in Uganda but a pioneering initiative in East Africa. We are excited to present a unique format of presentations that revolve around WordPress and digital learning.

Scheduled for April 6, 2024, at the prestigious Masaka Social Center, Bwala Hill in Masaka, Uganda, this event not only marks a historic milestone but also presents an exclusive chance for sponsors to align their brand with groundbreaking innovation in education technology. Secure your sponsorship now and play a key role in shaping the future of education through WordPress.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

Support the Community: By sponsoring this event, you’re not just contributing to the WordPress community in Uganda; you’re fostering the growth of digital education.

Enhance Your Brand: Gain significant exposure for your company among a crowd of dedicated WordPress users, educators, and the Ugandan community.

Bridge for Communication: Utilize this platform to interact directly with the community, enhancing your brand’s presence and establishing meaningful connections.

Sponsorship Packages

Gold Sponsor

UGX 1,900,000 OR USD 500

  1. Acknowledgment and thanks in opening and closing remarks of the event
  2. A dedicated page for sponsor
  3. Dedicated tabletop display at the event
  4. Dedicated blog post thanking each of our Gold Sponsors.
  5. Logo and website links on the WordCamp Website
  6. Company video looping as waiting video during the event.
  7. Dedicated Social Media Mentions: Post and Pre-Event
  8. Two entry passes to attend the event
Proceed to Checkout $500

Silver Sponsor

UGX 1,400,000 OR USD 300

  1. Acknowledgment and thanks in opening and closing remarks of the event
  2. A dedicated page for sponsor
  3. Dedicated tabletop display at the event
  4. Logo and website links on the WordCamp Website
  5. Company video looping as waiting video during the event.
  6. Dedicated Social Media Mentions: Post and Pre-Event
  7. One entry pass to attend the event
Proceed to Checkout $300

Bronze Sponsor

UGX 380,000 OR USD 100

  1. Acknowledgment and thanks in opening and closing remarks of the event
  2. A dedicated page for sponsor
  3. Logo and website links on the WordCamp Website
  4. Dedicated Social Media Mentions: Post and Pre-Event
  5. One entry pass to attend the event
Proceed to Checkout $100

In-kind Sponsor

Domain + Hosting (a minimum of 2 years)

  1. Company logo and branding prominently featured on key event materials
  2. A dedicated page for sponsors.
  3. Company logo featured on the sponsored student’s website
  4. Acknowledgment and thanks in opening and closing remarks
  5. Social media mentions via our official handles
Submit Sponsorship Interest Form Below ↘

Submission Deadline Reached

Welcome to WordPress in Education Showcase

Posted on by Nabayinda Hanifah

We’re happy to announce that the WordPress in Education Technology Showcase 2023 is officially on the calendar!

The WordPress in Education Technology Showcase will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Masaka Social Centre – Bwala Hill in Masaka, Uganda.

Subscribe stay up to date on the most recent news. We’ll be keeping you posted on all the details over the coming months, including showcase submissions, ticket sales and more.