Empowering Future Tech Leaders: Oracle Academy Hosts 2026 Ameri-STEAM Girls Bootcamp in Côte d’Ivoire

Sparking a passion for technology during a student’s formative years can alter the entire course of her future. When young girls gain early exposure to computer science, abstract concepts quickly turn into practical skills, self-assurance, and a clear roadmap for higher education.This transformative shift was on full display at the 2026 Ameri-STEAM Girls Bootcamp, hosted in the coastal town of Assouindé, Côte d’Ivoire, from August 1 to August 8, 2026. Over eight immersive days, the initiative broadened access to digital tools, practical coding, and leadership development for high-potential young women throughout the Sud-Comoé region.

Designed to help bridge the persistent gender gap in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), the program directly aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals for education and gender equity. The 2026 cohort brought together 23 girls aged 13 to 20, creating a supportive environment where seasoned mentors helped them rethink what is achievable in tech.

Blending Alice 3 Coding with Leadership and Wellness

The curriculum combined hands-on technical instruction with holistic personal development. Through the interactive learning resources provided by Oracle Academy, participants stepped into the world of computer science using Alice 3—an innovative 3D object-oriented programming environment. Students worked through foundational digital literacy modules while also taking part in workshops on public speaking, personal wellness, and community-focused project design.

Industry leaders added crucial perspective to the technical training. Key guest speakers from Oracle—including Falnan Silue, Senior Principal Customer Success Manager at Oracle Canada, and Bekere Amassoma, Program Manager for Oracle Academy Sub-Saharan Africa—shared personal stories on career planning, personal resilience, and the broader societal impact of STEAM fields. Their message to the young attendees was clear: imagine boldly and aim high.

By grounding computational thinking in everyday experiences, the coding sessions helped students gain immediate confidence in their problem-solving abilities.

Turning Code into Community Solutions and Social Advocacy

The climax of the eight-day bootcamp was the collaborative team projects. Applying their newly acquired skills in Alice 3, the girls built rich 3D animations aimed at tackling pressing social and environmental issues in their local communities.

Project topics ranged from preventing early marriage and early pregnancy to combating environmental pollution and advocating for girls’ right to education. By blending technical coding with creative storytelling, the participants demonstrated how technology serves as a powerful instrument for social change and public awareness.

Nurturing a Lasting Mentorship Network Across West Africa

A standout element of the 2026 bootcamp was the active presence of returning alumnae from past Ameri-STEAM cohorts. Every returning alumna is currently enrolled in higher education across diverse disciplines, including medicine, civil engineering, law, education, and communications. Notably, two alumnae—Kobina Kouakou Grâce and Elsa Trazié—are completing their engineering degrees this year.

Their participation underscores the program’s commitment to long-term continuity, peer-to-peer mentorship, and sustained community support.

By helping young women build technical expertise and strong professional networks, Oracle Academy and Ameri-STEAM continue to pave the way for the next generation of African tech leaders and innovators.