#Japan #Tokyo #IT Education #Girls Empowerment #Waffle Camp

Waffle Camp Hometown: A Launch for Empowerment

Waffle, a non-profit organization based in Minato City, Tokyo, is excited to announce the nationwide launch of its IT educational program called “Waffle Camp Hometown.” This initiative, designed specifically for junior and senior high school girls, aims to provide not only essential IT skills but also diverse experiences that allow participants to discover their potential. Waffle has received accolades for fostering young women's interests in technology and careers in IT.

In 2024, Waffle Camp continues to evolve by incorporating cutting-edge topics such as AI utilization into its curriculum. The program provides high-quality, practical education delivered by experienced instructors, including active women professionals from the IT industry and university students. By engaging with relatable role models, participants will deepen their interest in technology while gaining insights into potential career paths.

Program Features

1. Updated AI Utilization Content

The curriculum has been enhanced to include the use of generative AI tools in the web design process. Students will learn how to efficiently create content and gather design ideas for their websites. Additionally, the program will educate the students on ethical technology use, helping them build the necessary expertise to navigate today's digital landscape.

2. Professional Guidance from Experienced Mentors

The camp features talented instructors and mentors who are professionals in the IT field. By connecting participants with young women who have already made their mark in technology, the program inspires girls to envision their futures in tech careers and realize their potential.

3. Strengthened Collaboration with Local Organizations

The initiative also emphasizes collaboration with regional businesses and local governments, allowing for ongoing events catered to the unique characteristics of each community. This year’s program will mainly take place in previously successful regions, ensuring a stronger cooperative framework that maximizes local resources.

Event Information

Participating Cities and Details

• - Nagasaki City (Nagasaki Prefecture)

- Date: July 29 (Tuesday)
- Venue: MetLife Insurance Nagasaki Headquarters

• - Toyooka City (Hyogo Prefecture)

- Date: August 3 (Sunday)
- Venue: WACCU TOYOOKA Learning Room

• - Fukui Prefecture

- Date: August 6 (Wednesday)
- Venue: LINE Yahoo Headquarters Collaboration Hub

• - Upper Ina Region (Nagano Prefecture)

- Date: August 8 (Friday)
- Venue: Upper Ina Council Meeting Room

• - Nagaoka City (Niigata Prefecture)

- Date: August 17 (Sunday)
- Venue: MIRAI Studio Nagaoka B

Participation Details

• - Cost: Free
• - Eligibility: Junior and senior high school girls residing in the event areas (including non-binary individuals). Note: Fukui is limited to high school students; Nagaoka is for junior high students; Nagasaki is open to all genders.
• - Participation Numbers: Up to 160 participants in total across all venues.

Program Overview

Participants will engage in crafting original websites using HTML/CSS, effective use of generative AI tools, AI prompt design basics, information literacy, and ethical considerations. Additionally, there will be lectures by women working in technology and discussions about career paths in IT and STEM fields.

Previous Achievements and Participant Feedback

Since its inception in 2020, over 500 students have attended Waffle Camp, leading to numerous graduates pursuing STEM degrees or competing in IT-related contests.

• - Increased Interest in IT Fields: Pre-participation interest in IT jobs rose from 22% to 44%.
• - Programming Interest: Increased from 82% to 94%.
• - STEM Interest: Increased from 59% to 74%.
• - Satisfaction Rate: 92% rated the program four out of five stars or higher.

Participants expressed their enthusiasm: “I enjoyed the day more than I expected! Programming felt approachable and exciting!” Another participant mentioned, “The lectures were easy to follow, and I discovered the joy of creating in IT, which will influence my subject choices.”

Support and Sponsoring Companies

Organizations such as LINE Yahoo and Takano Corporation have lent their support to ensure the program's success. Their involvement enhances educational opportunities and resources for participants.

How to Apply

Details regarding locations and how to apply will soon be available on local government websites and the official Waffle website.

• - Waffle Camp Official Site
• - Contact: [email protected]

About Waffle

Waffle aims to create a society where everyone can thrive in the tech world, focusing on empowering women and transforming societal structures. The organization offers various educational programs, including Waffle Camp for middle and high school students and collaboration with international app development contests. With a commitment to social change, Waffle actively engages in policy advocacy, receiving accolades like the “SDGs Partnership Award.”